The Athletics have a roster brimming with young talent, and among them, first baseman Nick Kurtz stands out as a true rising star. Known affectionately as "Big Amish," Kurtz made a massive impact in his debut season in 2025, smashing 36 homers and racking up a 5.4 bWAR over just 117 games. His performance was nothing short of spectacular, setting the stage for an intriguing 2026.
Kurtz's prowess has not gone unnoticed, as ESPN's Buster Olney ranks him above seasoned veterans like Freddie Freeman and Bryce Harper in the 2026 first baseman rankings. Coming in third, only trailing Toronto's Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Atlanta's Matt Olson, Kurtz is making waves early in his career. Olney praises Kurtz's "special set of skills," and it's easy to see why.
In his rookie season, Kurtz posted a slash line of .290/.383/.619, leading to a remarkable 1.009 OPS. Over those 117 games, he collected 122 hits, scored 90 runs, and drove in 86 RBIs.
His 36 home runs were complemented by 26 doubles and even a couple of triples, showcasing his well-rounded offensive game. With a 173 OPS+, Kurtz's impact was undeniable.
At just 22 years old, and drafted fourth overall by the Athletics in 2024, Kurtz has quickly established himself among the elite at his position. His accolades include the AL Rookie of the Year and the AL Silver Slugger for first basemen, underscoring his breakout debut.
While these rankings reflect the upcoming 2026 season, seeing Kurtz ahead of names like Freeman and Harper is a testament to his potential. If he can maintain this momentum, he might not only justify his ranking but also enter the conversation for the AL MVP, alongside stars like Aaron Judge and Bobby Witt Jr.
Kurtz's talent is undeniable, and his trajectory suggests he's just getting started. As he continues to develop, the baseball world will be watching closely, eager to see how high this young star can rise.