Athletics' Nick Kurtz Expected to Remain Power Hitting Threat in 2026

The AL Rookie of the Year is looking to avoid the dreaded sophomore slump.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Nick Kurtz, the Oakland Athletics' young slugger, had a breakout rookie season in 2025, winning the AL Rookie of the Year award after hitting .290 with 36 home runs and 86 RBIs. Expectations are high that Kurtz will continue to be one of baseball's premier power hitters in 2026, even with the pressure taken off by the team's other offensive threats like Brent Rooker, Shea Langeliers, Tyler Soderstrom, and Lawrence Butler.

Why it matters

Kurtz's continued success is crucial for the Athletics, who are looking to build on their strong offensive performance in 2025. While the team's rotation may be a concern, Kurtz's power bat gives them a reliable source of run production that can help offset any pitching struggles.

The details

In his rookie season, Kurtz hit .290/.383/.619 with 36 home runs and 86 RBIs across 117 games. He even hit four home runs in a single game against the Houston Astros. Kurtz's breakout performance earned him a Silver Slugger Award and the unanimous AL Rookie of the Year honor.

  • Kurtz was called up to the major leagues in late April 2025.
  • Kurtz hit four home runs in a game against the Houston Astros in July 2025.

The players

Nick Kurtz

The Oakland Athletics' young slugger who won the AL Rookie of the Year award in 2025 after hitting .290 with 36 home runs and 86 RBIs.

Brent Rooker

An Athletics player who hit at least 20 home runs in the 2025 season, helping to take the pressure off Kurtz.

Shea Langeliers

An Athletics player who hit at least 20 home runs in the 2025 season, helping to take the pressure off Kurtz.

Tyler Soderstrom

An Athletics player who hit at least 20 home runs in the 2025 season, helping to take the pressure off Kurtz.

Lawrence Butler

An Athletics player who hit at least 20 home runs in the 2025 season, helping to take the pressure off Kurtz.

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The takeaway

Nick Kurtz's breakout rookie season has established him as one of baseball's premier power hitters, and the Athletics are counting on him to continue that production in 2026. With a strong supporting cast of offensive talent around him, Kurtz should have no trouble maintaining his dominance at the plate, even if the team's pitching staff proves to be a concern.