Athletics first baseman Nick Kurtz has been named the 2025 American League Rookie of the Year, as announced by the Baseball Writers Association of America. He was chosen unanimously, with teammate Jacob Wilson finishing second and Roman Anthony of the Red Sox in third. Kurtz, selected fourth overall in the 2024 draft, had a strong season despite being limited to 117 games due to a late call-up and a hip injury. He recorded 36 home runs, a .290 average, and a wRC+ of 170, placing him among the league’s elite.
Kurtz’s late promotion means he will be credited with a full year of service for the purposes of free agency and controlling his contract, reducing his controllable years from six to five. If he had been called up earlier, the Athletics could have earned additional draft picks through prospect promotion incentives.
Wilson, while also a rookie, has a contrasting offensive profile. He struck out very few times and had a solid average of .311, albeit with less power compared to Kurtz. He missed part of 2024 on injured reserve but retained rookie eligibility in 2025.
Roman Anthony, a top prospect, was called up in June after an injury opened a spot in the Red Sox’s crowded outfield. He had a successful but shortened season and signed an eight-year, $130 million extension in August.
Other notable mentions from the voting included Noah Cameron of the Royals and Colson Montgomery of the White Sox among others.
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