Athletics select Wake Forest star Nick Kurtz 4th overall
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With the fourth pick in the 2024 MLB Draft, the Oakland Athletics selected Nick Kurtz, a first baseman from Wake Forest University.
Kurtz was originally recruited as a left-handed pitcher out of high school but transformed into one of the top draft prospects after transitioning to first base and showing immense power and hitting ability.
Bio
Age: 21
Position: 1B
Height/Weight: 6-5, 240 lbs
Bats/Throws: L/L
School: Wake Forest
Pick value: $8,370,800
2024 Stats
| GP | HR | RBI | AVG | OPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 54 | 22 | 57 | .306 | 1.294 |
Tools
- 65-grade power and 60-grade hit tools
- Good eye at plate, led DI in walks
- Quality defender at first base
Why fans will love this player
- Complete hitter, not just a slugger
- Hits well against both righties and lefties
- Has been compared to Jim Thome
Things he'll need to overcome
- Below-average speed (40-grade run)
- Missed games due to shoulder and rib issues
- Average arm strength