Nick Kurtz in the A’s clubhouse on Tuesday. (Photo: Athletics on X)

By Jeremiah Salmonson

WEST SACRAMENTO — A new era at first base for the Athletics is upon us!

The A’s first selection in the 2024 MLB Draft, Nick Kurtz, will make his debut for the Athletics in Sacramento against the Texas Rangers on Wednesday evening.

Kurtz, the No. 4 overall selection in last year’s draft out of Wake Forest, will debut after just 32 minor league games and less than 10 months since being drafted — both unprecedented in MLB. In those 32 minor league games, Kurtz hit .366 with 11 home runs, 10 doubles, and 22 walks, good for a 1.121 OPS. Coaches and players who have seen him during his brief time in pro ball have described him as a very mature player despite his limited experience. 

A’s manager Mark Kotsay, speaking with the media on Tuesday, said, “He’s a pretty accomplished young hitter, and he’s got an advanced approach. As David mentioned, his demeanor, he’s a pretty even-keeled kid.

It’s safe to say there’s plenty of excitement surrounding Nick, both in the clubhouse and in the front office.

Kurtz will play first base on Wednesday as Tyler Soderstrom moves to the outfield.

As the A’s continue to struggle at home (2-8 over their first 10 home games), Kurtz might be just what the doctor ordered. Granted, A’s pitching is generally seen as the area most in need of improvement.

As for Kurtz and his appeal to fans, I’ll say this: I watched Nick clear the batter’s eye in center field and hit the scoreboard in right-center during batting practice on Tuesday afternoon. The kid is gonna be must-watch baseball.