Nick Kurtz Makes History as Athletics Walk Off Against Red Sox 5-4: Butler Delivers Ninth-Inning Winner, Chapman’s Streak Snapped

Wednesday, September 10th, 2025

Nick Kurtz Makes History, Butler Walks Off as Athletics Edge Red Sox 5-4

In an electrifying matchup in West Sacramento, rookie sensation Nick Kurtz joined legendary Athletics sluggers Jose Canseco and Mark McGwire as the only rookies in franchise history to reach 30 home runs. Lawrence Butler delivered a dramatic walk-off single in the ninth, sealing a 5-4 victory over the Boston Red Sox and snapping reliever Aroldis Chapman’s impressive hitless streak.

Nick Kurtz Reaches 30 Home Runs as a Rookie

Kurtz blasted his 30th home run of the season in the second inning, a powerful 357-foot shot to left field off Boston starter Payton Tolle, giving the Athletics a 2-1 lead. He becomes just the 32nd player in MLB history to reach 30 home runs as a rookie, following in the footsteps of Canseco (33 in 1986) and McGwire (49 in 1987).

Lawrence Butler Delivers in the Ninth

The game’s decisive moment arrived in the ninth inning. Shea Langeliers sparked the rally with a double off Aroldis Chapman, who had not allowed a hit in 17 appearances since July 23, spanning 50 batters. After a flyout advanced Langeliers, Butler drove him home with a single to left, handing the Athletics the walk-off win.

Shea Langeliers Snaps Scoreless Drought

Langeliers also contributed with his own milestone, smashing his career-high 30th homer in the first inning. That solo shot ended the Athletics’ 19-inning scoreless streak and set the tone for a back-and-forth contest.

Jacob Wilson Threatens Batting Title

Athletics rookie Jacob Wilson maintained his hot-hitting ways, going 1-for-4. His season average now stands at .319, just behind MLB leader Aaron Judge of the New York Yankees, who began the night batting .321.

Red Sox Offense Answers But Falls Short

The Red Sox offense showed resilience throughout the game. Rob Refsnyder belted an RBI double in the ninth to tie the contest, while Nate Eaton and Trevor Story each contributed RBI doubles in the fourth to help Boston pull ahead 3-2. Jarren Duran added an RBI as well.

Tyler Soderstrom Gives A’s Late Lead

Tyler Soderstrom responded for Oakland with a clutch two-run double in the fifth, reclaiming a 4-3 lead for the Athletics before the Red Sox rallied back in the ninth.

Pitching Highlights

Boston’s Payton Tolle allowed two runs in two innings in his third career start. Kyle Harrison, acquired in a trade involving Rafael Devers, made his major league debut with three scoreless innings. For Oakland, Mason Barnett gave up three runs on seven hits in 3 2/3 innings in his third career start. Hogan Harris earned the win after fanning Jarren Duran and retiring Alex Bregman in the top of the ninth.

Key Moment

Butler’s walk-off single came on a 100.2 mph fastball with a 1-2 count, sending the home crowd into celebration.

Key Stat

Despite the loss, Boston has dominated Oakland in recent years, compiling a 16-5 record in their last 21 matchups since 2022.

Up Next

Boston sends right-hander Lucas Giolito (10-3, 3.38 ERA) to the mound on Friday against the New York Yankees, who have yet to name their starter. Oakland will also have a to-be-announced starter for their series opener against the Cincinnati Reds and right-hander Brady Singer (13-9, 3.98 ERA).

In Summary

The Athletics capped a thrilling night as Nick Kurtz joined historic company with his 30th home run and Lawrence Butler secured a 5-4 walk-off win over the Red Sox. The victory snapped Aroldis Chapman’s record-setting hitless streak and delivered a momentum boost for Oakland. Shea Langeliers added his own 30th homer, while Jacob Wilson continued his pursuit of the batting title. Despite a strong effort from the Red Sox lineup and bullpen, Oakland’s clutch hitting and pitching sealed the dramatic victory, setting the stage for exciting upcoming series matchups.

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