It was quite the first year for the Athletics who played their first season at Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento as the organization awaits for their eventual state-of-the-art ballpark to be completed in Las Vegas.
Despite finishing the season out of playoff contention, the A’s and their fans have reason for optimism, thanks to a roster stacked with young, emerging talent.
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First baseman Nick Kurtz was a bright spot, establishing himself as one of the league’s premier power hitters.
Kurtz was named a finalist for the American League Jackie Robinson Rookie of the Year award, MLB announced.
In 117 games, Kurtz recorded 36 home runs, 86 RBIs, a 1.002 on-base plus slugging percentage and 5.4 wins above replacement (WAR).
The fourth overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft made his 2025 debut after time in the minors.
His season included numerous standout moments, but none bigger than his July 25 performance against Houston. Kurtz hit a rookie-record four home runs as part of a 6-for-6 game, leading the Athletics to a 15-3 win.
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Another memorable moment came at the expense of the Astros, again, as Kurtz hit two walk-off home runs in the same week on June 16 and 19.
But Kurtz wasn’t the only one to represent the A’s with an impressive first-year campaign.
His teammate, shortstop Jacob Wilson was also named a finalist for the AL Jackie Robinson Rookie of the Year award.
Wilson, 23, emerged as a consistent contact hitter, finishing third on the team in hits and leading all MLB rookies with 151. He struck out only 39 times in 523 plate appearances, one of the lowest totals in the league.
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A key, unforgettable moment for Wilson was hitting his first career home run against the Chicago Cubs during MLB opening week at the A’s temporary home at Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento.
Wilson’s performance earned him a starting spot at shortstop for the AL All-Star team. His .311 batting average tied for the league lead, matching New York Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge and Toronto Blue Jays shortstop Bo Bichette.
Previous Athletics to win the Rookie of the Year award include Harry Byrd, Jose Canseco, Mark McGwire, Walt Weiss, Ben Grieve, Bobby Crosby, Huston Street and Andrew Bailey.
The 2025 Rookie of the Year awards will be announced Nov. 10.
