In the 2024 MLB Draft, the Oakland A’s selected Nick Kurtz from Wake Forest with the fourth overall pick. Just before the draft began, there was speculation about Cleveland possibly choosing Travis Bazzana first overall, which allowed Kurtz to fall to the A’s as discussed earlier.
Kurtz, ranked as the No. 7 prospect by MLB Pipeline, is expected to become one of the A’s top prospects, potentially joining Jacob Wilson at the forefront. The 21-year-old left-handed first baseman showcased impressive numbers in college, batting .333 with a .510 OBP and 61 home runs over three seasons. His powerful bat was highly coveted in the draft, drawing comparisons to Anthony Rizzo.
During the 2024 season, Kurtz maintained a .306 batting average with 22 home runs, 11 doubles, and 57 RBIs, earning First Team All-ACC honors. He led the nation with 78 walks and only 42 strikeouts, boasting a robust .531 OBP. With scouting grades of 60 for hitting, 65 for power, and solid marks in other areas, Kurtz is projected to be a top-100 prospect in MLB.
Choosing a first baseman with their top pick was an intriguing move for the A’s, considering shortstop JJ Wetherholt was also available and highly ranked. Nonetheless, Kurtz’s addition bolsters the A’s farm system, aligning him with promising talents like Zack Gelof, Jacob Wilson, Tyler Soderstrom, and Lawrence Butler. This infusion of young talent suggests a promising future for the A’s as they prepare for the 2025 season in Sacramento.
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