Athletics' Nick Kurtz Focuses on Defensive Upgrade for 2026 Season

Rookie standout aims to shore up fielding skills to boost team's playoff chances

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Oakland Athletics' first baseman Nick Kurtz, the reigning American League Rookie of the Year, has dedicated the offseason to improving his defensive abilities, particularly in handling popups, which was a weakness in his game last season. The Athletics struggled defensively in 2025, ranking near the bottom of MLB teams, and Kurtz's defensive metrics reflected those issues. With Kurtz's commitment to enhancing his glove work, the team hopes his defensive upgrade will complement his impressive offensive production and help them contend in the competitive AL West division.

Why it matters

The Athletics' defensive struggles in 2025 were a significant factor in their overall performance issues, and Kurtz's defensive shortcomings contributed to the team's broader fielding challenges. Improving the team's defense, especially from key players like Kurtz, will be crucial for the Athletics' return to playoff contention in the stacked AL West division.

The details

Kurtz had an outstanding rookie season at the plate, batting .290 with 36 home runs and 86 RBIs, but his defensive game lagged significantly, particularly in handling popups. Recognizing this weakness, Kurtz dedicated the offseason to refining his fielding abilities. Athletics infield coach Bobby Crosby noted that Kurtz "kind of stabs at" popups and needs to "let it come to him" to improve his defensive prowess. Kurtz finished in the ninth percentile of Outs Above Average (OAA) among first basemen and posted a -3% success rate added, indicating he failed to make 3% of plays he was expected to complete.

  • The 2026 MLB season is approaching as spring training begins.
  • Kurtz had an outstanding rookie year in 2025, earning American League Rookie of the Year honors.

The players

Nick Kurtz

The Oakland Athletics' standout rookie first baseman from the 2025 season, who had an impressive offensive campaign but struggled defensively, particularly with handling popups.

Bobby Crosby

The Oakland Athletics' infield coach, who has provided guidance to Kurtz on improving his defensive skills.

Martin Gallegos

The MLB.com reporter who covered Kurtz's defensive struggles and his offseason focus on improving his fielding abilities.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“If there was one thing that isn't his strong suit, that was it. He kind of stabs at them. He needs to let it come to him. He has swag when he hits. He needs to have swag on popups.”

— Bobby Crosby, Athletics' infield coach (MLB.com)

What’s next

The Athletics will be closely monitoring Kurtz's defensive progress during spring training as they prepare for the 2026 MLB season and their push for a playoff berth in the competitive AL West division.

The takeaway

Kurtz's commitment to improving his defensive skills, particularly in handling popups, is a crucial step for the Athletics as they look to shore up their overall defensive performance and contend for a postseason spot in 2026. The team's success will hinge on the defensive progress of key players like Kurtz, as well as the effectiveness of their pitching staff.