Athletics' Nick Kurtz Ranked Higher Than Freddie Freeman, Bryce Harper in 2026 ESPN First Baseman Rankings

The 22-year-old Kurtz is already one of the top first basemen in MLB after a breakout rookie season.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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According to ESPN's 2026 MLB first baseman rankings, Oakland Athletics' first baseman Nick Kurtz is ranked higher than veteran stars Freddie Freeman and Bryce Harper. Kurtz, who was the AL Rookie of the Year and Silver Slugger in 2025, is ranked 3rd overall behind only Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Matt Olson. In his debut season, the 22-year-old Kurtz hit .290 with 36 home runs and 86 RBIs, showcasing his immense potential as a rising superstar in the league.

Why it matters

Kurtz's rapid ascent to the top of the first baseman rankings, surpassing established stars like Freeman and Harper, highlights his immense talent and potential. This early recognition cements Kurtz as one of the most exciting young players in baseball and a key part of the Athletics' promising future.

The details

In his rookie season in 2025, Kurtz put up a 5.4 bWAR in 117 games, hitting .290/.383/.619 with 36 home runs, 86 RBIs, and a 173 OPS+. His breakout performance earned him the AL Rookie of the Year and Silver Slugger awards. Now, heading into the 2026 season, ESPN has ranked Kurtz as the 3rd best first baseman in baseball, ahead of veterans like Freddie Freeman and Bryce Harper.

  • Kurtz was drafted 4th overall by the Athletics in the 2024 MLB Draft.
  • Kurtz made his MLB debut in 2025 and had a breakout rookie season.
  • ESPN released its 2026 MLB first baseman rankings in February 2026.

The players

Nick Kurtz

A 22-year-old first baseman for the Oakland Athletics who had a breakout rookie season in 2025, hitting .290 with 36 home runs and 86 RBIs.

Freddie Freeman

A veteran first baseman for the Los Angeles Dodgers, ranked 5th in ESPN's 2026 first baseman rankings.

Bryce Harper

A star outfielder for the Philadelphia Phillies, ranked 6th in ESPN's 2026 first baseman rankings.

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What they’re saying

“Kurtz has a special set of skills.”

— Buster Olney, ESPN Analyst (ESPN)

What’s next

If Kurtz can back up his 2025 breakout season with another strong performance in 2026, he could challenge for the AL MVP award and cement his status as one of the top young stars in baseball.

The takeaway

Nick Kurtz's rapid rise to become one of the top-ranked first basemen in baseball, surpassing established stars like Freddie Freeman and Bryce Harper, is a testament to his immense talent and potential. The Athletics have found a potential superstar in the 22-year-old, who is poised to be a key part of their future success.