Athletics Nick Kurtz Reaching Historic Levels Amid Rookie of the Year Race

Athletics Nick Kurtz Reaching Historic Levels Amid Rookie of the Year Race originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

Since making his major league debut on April 23 against the Texas Rangers, Athletics first baseman Nick Kurtz has proved he belongs in the bigs. Not only does the 6-foot-5, 240-pound Wake Forest product - affectionately nicknamed 'Big Amish' by his teammates - look the part, but his statistics are flat out jaw-dropping.

Thursday night, Kurtz added to his already impressive resume with a pair of doubles and an RBI in a 5-2 win over the Houston Astros at Daikin Park. He's now slashing an impressive .288/.360/.982 this season, with 17 doubles, two triples, 19 home runs and 28 walks.

According to OptaSTATS, no other player to debut since 1901 has reached those marks through 65 career games. Kurtz's 38 extra base hits this season are also the most by an Athletics rookie in his first 65 contests.

“There’s not much more that’s going to ‘wow’ me in terms of what he does." Athletics manager Mark Kotsay told MLB.com. "He’s a special player. He’s showing that continually in just the way he prepares himself and carries himself. You can’t say enough good things about Nick.”

Despite his out-of-this Earth numbers, Kurtz is not a lock to take home American League Rookie of Year honors. Kurtz's teammate, all-star shortstop Jacob Wilson, has also been enjoying a remarkable rookie season. Wilson, who has played 28 more games than Kurtz, is slashing .311/.353/.440 with 27 extra-base hits and 44 RBIs. His 114 hits rank second the AL behind New York Yankees slugger Aaron Judge (129).

Kurtz, however, has been on another planet during an 11-game hit streak which began on July 10. The 22-year old is batting .488 with nine doubles, a triple and five home runs during that span.

“He’s special,” A’s outfielder Lawrence Butler said of Kurtz. “I honestly don’t even know who’s going to win Rookie of the Year now between him and Jacob. We’ve got some of the best rookies in the league on our team. … I’m just glad they’re on our team.”

From Mark McGwire to Walt Weiss, eight different Athletics have won the AL Rookie of the Year Award since 1949. This season, it's highly likely Kurtz or Wilson add their name into franchise lore.

Related: Brent Rooker Reveals Preferred Team Ahead of Trade Deadline

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 25, 2025, where it first appeared.