Athletics first baseman Nick Kurtz will start the All-Star Game at first base for the American League, replacing Vladimir Guerrero Jr. of the Toronto Blue Jays.

Guerrero had been voted in as a starter by fans but is opting to let his ailing back heal as opposed to participating in the game. Kurtz, the reigning AL Rookie of the Year, received the most votes among American League first basemen on the player ballot and will move into the starting role.

Guerrero has dealt with periodic back issues, and he missed consecutive games against the New York Yankees in mid-June when the ailment flared up. He also sat out the game against Toronto last Tuesday against the New York Mets due to his back.

“It’s very difficult for me. But I really have to take care of myself and I’ve got to put my team first for the second half,” Guerrero said, per Sportsnet.

This was his sixth consecutive All-Star selection.

Guerrero, 27, is having a sluggish offensive season, batting .265 with just four homers and 35 RBIs in 82 games. He has hit 23 or more homers in five consecutive seasons, including an MLB-leading 48 in 2021.

Kurtz, 23, is hitting .278 with 20 home runs and 66 RBIs in 88 games.

The All-Star Game is set for July 14 in Philadelphia.

–Field Level Media