A’s Rising Stars Nick Kurtz, Jacob Wilson Compete for Major League Award
The Athletics had an eventful first season at Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento as they await a new stadium in Las Vegas. Although the team did not make the playoffs, their roster brims with young talent, offering fans a glimpse of hope for the future.
Amazing Performances from Rising Stars
Two rookies made headlines this season: Nick Kurtz and Jacob Wilson. Both players were named finalists for the prestigious American League Jackie Robinson Rookie of the Year award.
Nick Kurtz’s Remarkable Rookie Year
First baseman Nick Kurtz emerged as one of the league’s top power hitters. In 117 games, he recorded:
- 36 home runs
- 86 RBIs
- 1.002 on-base plus slugging percentage
- 5.4 wins above replacement (WAR)
Kurtz, the fourth overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft, made a significant impact in his 2025 debut. A standout moment in his season occurred on July 25 against the Houston Astros, where he set a rookie record by hitting four home runs in a single game, contributing to a 15-3 victory for the Athletics.
In another impressive display, Kurtz hit two walk-off home runs in a single week, occurring on June 16 and 19.
Jacob Wilson’s Consistent Performance
Shortstop Jacob Wilson, age 23, also had a noteworthy season. He finished third on the Athletics in hits, leading all MLB rookies with a total of 151 hits. His plate discipline was exceptional, with only 39 strikeouts in 523 plate appearances, one of the best ratios in the league.
A memorable highlight was Wilson’s first career home run against the Chicago Cubs during opening week. His impressive performance secured him a starting position on the American League All-Star team. Wilson’s .311 batting average ranked him among the league leaders, tying with stars like Aaron Judge and Bo Bichette.
Anticipation for Rookie of the Year Awards
The 2025 Rookie of the Year awards will be announced on November 10. Previous winners from the Athletics include notable players like:
- Harry Byrd
- Jose Canseco
- Mark McGwire
- Walt Weiss
- Ben Grieve
- Bobby Crosby
- Huston Street
- Andrew Bailey
The Athletics are optimistic about the future, thanks to the outstanding contributions of Kurtz and Wilson. Their skill and dedication could well elevate the team to new heights in upcoming seasons.
