Nick Kurtz Marks MLB Debut with RBI Single for Athletics

Nick Kurtz, a former Wake Forest standout and the fourth overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft, made an immediate impact in his Major League Baseball debut for the Oakland Athletics by hitting an RBI single in his first at-bat against the Texas Rangers. His debut came less than a year after being drafted, marking a remarkably fast rise through the minor leagues, in which he played just over 30 games. Kurtz batted seventh and played first base, finishing the game 1-for-4 in a 5-2 Athletics win. He is regarded as the Athletics' top prospect and is known for his advanced approach at the plate, which contributed to impressive minor league offensive statistics. The moment was made more special as his father was caught on camera enthusiastically waving the runner home, and the crowd gave him a standing ovation. Kurtz is the third player from the 2024 draft class to debut in the majors this season.