Nearly two weeks after setting a major-league record for most consecutive games at shortstop without an error, Athletics shortstop Jacob Wilson is expected to miss the remainder of the 2026 season due to a left shoulder injury. This news is a brutal gut punch for a team already struggling, and it raises serious questions about their future and Wilson’s long-term health.
The Shoulder Saga Continues, And It’s Not Looking Good
Wilson has not played since Sunday because of left shoulder soreness and is now heading back to Sacramento for further examination. He is expected to be placed on the injured list Friday. Athletics manager Mark Kotsay flat out said Monday, “There’s no swinging, no throwing,” making it clear Wilson’s only real availability off the bench would be to pinch-run late in a game. This isn’t Wilson’s first tango with shoulder issues this season either. Back in May, he dislocated that same left shoulder diving for a ball, which sidelined him for a month. He barely got back on the field before right thumb inflammation knocked him out for another 10 games. Now, with the possibility of surgery looming, his recovery for next season is far from guaranteed.
A $70 Million Question Mark For A Last Place Team
This is rough, especially after the Athletics locked Wilson down with a seven-year, $70 million contract extension just this past January. While his advanced defensive metrics, like -7 Defensive Runs Saved and 9 Outs Above Average, show he’s played at his normal level despite the injuries, his offensive numbers have clearly taken a hit. This season, he’s only put up a .266/.298/.388 slash line with 7 homers, 16 doubles, and 37 RBI in 366 plate appearances. That’s a noticeable drop from last year’s .311/.355/.444 with 13 homers, 26 doubles, and 63 RBI. With the Athletics already dead last in the American League at 49-78, risking further injury to Wilson simply makes no sense. The injured list in Oakland is getting seriously crowded, with first baseman Nick Kurtz, catcher Shea Langeliers, outfielder Tyler Soderstrom, and designated hitter Brent Rooker also done for the season.
So, what’s next? Darell Hernaiz, Alika Williams, and Donovan Walton are now expected to split time at shortstop. For Wilson, the focus has to be on getting healthy for next season, whatever that takes.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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