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2d ago

Nick Kurtz’s Rookie Surge Draws Raves, While New Analysis Checks the All-Time Hype

A FanSided assessment places the A’s first baseman outside the greatest rookie seasons despite his surging production.

SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 13: Nick Kurtz #16 of the Athletics celebrates a 493 feet grand slam in the bottom of the eighth inning against the Cincinnati Reds at Sutter Health Park on September 13, 2025 in Sacramento, California. This is the new furthest home run hit this season
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Overview

  • MLB Network’s Mark DeRosa labeled the Oakland rookie “one of the best hitters in the game” and insisted his breakout is no “flash in the pan.”
  • Kurtz is batting .298 with 32 home runs and 80 RBIs, with Newsweek citing a 1.019 OPS and FanSided reporting 1.109 after Monday’s win over the Reds.
  • FanSided’s ranking credits Kurtz’s impact but argues his 2025 does not belong among the top five—or likely top 10—rookie seasons in MLB history.
  • Through 440 plate appearances, FanSided notes a 5.1 bWAR that leads the Athletics, while the team sits at 70–80 on the season.
  • Newsweek highlights standout splits against strong opponents, including a .548 average with seven homers versus the division-rival Astros.