LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — Nick Kurtz’s path from Triple-A Las Vegas to major league stardom happened fast — and the Athletics first baseman said the pace of his first year in the big leagues made it feel even faster.
Kurtz, who began his climb with the Las Vegas Aviators, was called up April 21, 2025, kick-starting a standout rookie season that ended with him being named American League Rookie of the Year.
“It’s crazy to think about,” Kurtz said. “Playing at AAA in Las Vegas was a long time ago. Playing in the big leagues for almost a year, you’ve got all of this pressure and the day-to-day grind that makes it feel like it was a lifetime. So being in Vegas definitely feels like a long time ago.”
FOX5 recently spoke with Kurtz about the whirlwind year and what comes next as the A’s get off to a strong start this season.
MORE ON FOX5: Fernando Mendoza shares insight on Las Vegas Raiders rookie minicamp
Kurtz said he didn’t have much time during the season to reflect, given the daily demands of playing nearly every day, but that changed once the year ended.
“Yeah, definitely. I got to enjoy what I did,” Kurtz said. “You don’t get to do that during the year and have to worry about what you have to do that day. You play so much it’s hard to look back and enjoy what you’ve done, but I definitely took some time to do so.”
Kurtz’s success has also fueled speculation about a long-term deal. During spring training, contract rumors circulated that the A’s offered a reported seven-year, $130 million contract.
No agreement has been finalized, and Kurtz said he is leaving negotiations to his agent.
“Whenever it happens, it happens. I’m just focused on winning,” Kurtz said. “I’m really happy for Jacob Wilson and Tyler Soderstrom. They played their way into those contracts. I’m really proud of them. I’m more like let the other people handle that. I’m just going to worry about playing the game.”
Copyright 2026 KVVU. All rights reserved.
