Athletics Star Nick Kurtz Open to Contract Extension

Kurtz says he is "definitely open and interested" in signing long-term deal with Oakland

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Athletics star outfielder Nick Kurtz, the reigning AL Rookie of the Year, has indicated he is open to signing a contract extension to remain with the team long-term. Kurtz said he is "definitely open and interested" in an extension, following the recent deals signed by several other key Athletics players. The team has reportedly already made an offer to Kurtz, though the likelihood of reaching a deal is still uncertain as the team enters spring training.

Why it matters

Keeping Kurtz, one of the team's young stars, would be a major priority for the Athletics as they look to build a contending roster. Kurtz's comments suggest the team has a good chance of locking him up long-term, which would provide stability and continuity for the franchise.

The details

Kurtz, 22, had a breakout rookie season in 2025, batting .290 with 36 home runs and 86 RBIs en route to winning the AL Rookie of the Year award and a Silver Slugger. His comments came after the Athletics signed several other key players, including Lawrence Butler, Brent Rooker, Tyler Soderstrom, and Jack Wilson, to long-term extensions. MLB insider Joel Sherman reported that the Athletics have already made an offer to Kurtz, though the likelihood of a deal being reached is still uncertain.

  • Kurtz made his comments on Tuesday, February 25, 2026.
  • The Athletics have reportedly made their extension offer to Kurtz in recent days, according to Sherman's report on Thursday, February 27, 2026.

The players

Nick Kurtz

A 22-year-old outfielder for the Oakland Athletics who won the AL Rookie of the Year award in 2025 after batting .290 with 36 home runs and 86 RBIs.

Lawrence Butler

An Athletics player who recently signed a long-term contract extension with the team.

Brent Rooker

An Athletics player who recently signed a long-term contract extension with the team.

Tyler Soderstrom

An Athletics player who recently signed a long-term contract extension with the team.

Jack Wilson

An Athletics player who recently signed a long-term contract extension with the team.

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What they’re saying

“It's just about timing. I'm really happy for Sodie and Willy. They deserve it. They're unbelievable players, so I'm happy for them that they signed on and they're going to be A's for a long time.”

— Nick Kurtz (The Athletic)

“The A's have made a long-term extension offer to AL ROY Nick Kurtz, according to 2 sources. I received no word on the likelihood of getting it to the finish line. The A's over the last year have done pre-arbitration extensions already with [Lawrence] Butler, Soderstrom, Wilson.”

— Joel Sherman, MLB Insider (Twitter)

What’s next

The Athletics and Kurtz will continue negotiations on a potential contract extension as the team enters spring training.

The takeaway

Keeping Kurtz, one of the Athletics' young stars, is a top priority for the franchise as they look to build a contending roster. Kurtz's openness to an extension is an encouraging sign for the team and its fans, though the final outcome of the negotiations remains to be seen.