Thu Sep 11 11:00:00 UTC 2025: **News Article:**

**Oakland A’s Young Sluggers Kurtz and Langeliers Reach Milestone Home Run Marks in Walk-Off Win**

WEST SACRAMENTO – The Oakland Athletics witnessed a historic night as young stars Nick Kurtz and Shea Langeliers both reached the 30-home run mark in a thrilling 5-4 walk-off victory over the Boston Red Sox at Sutter Health Park.

Langeliers ignited the A’s offense with a first-inning solo home run, while Kurtz followed suit in the second inning with a blast of his own. These home runs not only propelled the A’s to victory but also etched their names in franchise history.

“Those are two top-of-the-order guys,” said manager Mark Kotsay. “For both Shea and Kurtz, this is an incredible run. It’s an incredible year for both of them.”

Langeliers, already recognized as the American League Player of the Month, became only the second catcher in A’s history, joining Terry Steinbach, to hit 30 home runs in a season while playing catcher in at least 50% of games. His impressive stats position him as one of the top catchers in the AL, ranking second in home runs, doubles, slugging percentage, and OPS.

Rookie sensation Nick Kurtz joined the ranks of Oakland A’s legends Mark McGwire and Jose Canseco as the third rookie in team history to hit 30 or more home runs in a season. Reaching the milestone in his 102nd Major League game, Kurtz is among the fastest active players to achieve this feat.

“For Kurtz, as a rookie, he continues to show things that we really haven’t seen in a long time,” Kotsay said. “It’s pretty special.”

Beyond the milestones, both players played critical roles in the A’s victory. Langeliers sparked the game-winning rally in the bottom of the ninth with a double against Red Sox closer Aroldis Chapman, snapping Chapman’s streak of 50 consecutive batters faced without allowing a hit. Lawrence Butler then delivered a clutch, game-winning single, driving in Langeliers to secure the win.

“I just really didn’t want to strike out there, so I was looking for anything in the zone or close to the zone to put it in play,” Butler said.

The A’s look to continue their success as Kurtz and Langeliers continue to lead the team with their impressive performances.

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