Josh

Kuroda-Grauer

The first two hits were off Tarik Skubal. Most of the rest of the Athletics’ lineup didn’t fare as well, so Kuroda-Grauer went without a run scored or an RBI tonight. He’s off to a 12-for-26 start to his big-league career, and he’s struck out just twice to date. With his contact ability, he could remain quite strong in terms of batting average, though he probably won’t be as helpful elsewhere.

None of Kuroda-Grauer’s hits came on hard-hit balls. In fact, his 93-mph groundout in the third was his hardest-hit ball of the night. Still, he placed everything well. Kuroda-Grauer figures to mostly play against lefties for now, but if he excels, he could tempt the A’s to move on from Jeff McNeil. He should be in the lineup again Tuesday against Justin Wrobleski.

Kuroda-Grauer earns his first promotion to the majors after hitting .323/.367/.478 with seven homers and 15 steals in 365 plate appearances over 75 games for Triple-A Las Vegas. He doesn’t offer a ton of over-the-fence pop, but he’s consistently made excellent swing decisions in the upper minors. The 23-year-old rookie figures to get a look at shortstop, and several other infield spots, while starter Jacob Wilson is on the injured list with a thumb issue. He’s at second base and hitting ninth against the Dodgers in his big-league debut on Monday night.