Athletics select Wake Forest star Nick Kurtz 4th overall

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

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

Pre-draft projections

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