A historic rookie season has found its rightful conclusion. The 2025 American League Rookie of the Year has been awarded to Nick Kurtz, the Oakland Athletics’ first baseman, who received all 30 first-place votes in a stunning unanimous decision.
Kurtz’s numbers defy belief: .290 batting average, 36 home runs, 86 RBIs, and a 1.002 OPS in 117 games. He made history as the first rookie ever to hit four home runs in a single game, shaking the league to its core. Simply put, he wasn’t just good—he was revolutionary.
Over in the National League, Drake Baldwin, catcher for the Atlanta Braves, claimed the honors, marking the rise of two new stars who are poised to define MLB’s next generation.
The Historic 4-Homer Game That Defined a Legend
If there’s one moment that encapsulates Nick Kurtz’s season, it’s his four-home-run game.
Only 20 players in MLB history had ever achieved the feat—and none of them were rookies.
For Kurtz to accomplish this as a rookie call-up in late April is nothing short of legendary. Most previous 4-HR games came from seasoned veterans at the peak of their powers. Kurtz did it before his first full season was even half over.
That game didn’t just showcase his raw power—it revealed his fearlessness, mental toughness, and elite hitting instincts. It was the moment he declared, “I belong among the greats.”
It’s no wonder the voting panel handed him a unanimous victory. The record itself forced history’s recognition.
The Significance of an Athletics 1-2 Rookie Finish
Perhaps just as striking, Kurtz’s teammate, shortstop Jacob Wilson, finished second in Rookie of the Year voting.
It’s only the ninth time in MLB history that two players from the same team finished first and second in Rookie of the Year voting.
This achievement symbolizes more than individual success—it’s proof that Oakland’s rebuilding plan is finally paying off.
Once defined by “Moneyball” and constant roster turnover, the Athletics now have a young, dynamic core to build around.
Kurtz and Wilson—anchoring first base and shortstop—represent the foundation of a new era in Oakland.
Just as the “Big Three” once carried the franchise, this new duo offers hope to a fan base hungry for revival.
Rookie of the Year Twins: Power and Precision
While Kurtz brings thunder to the American League, Drake Baldwin delivered balance to the National League.
In 124 games, Baldwin hit .274 with 19 homers and 80 RBIs, an exceptional showing for a defensive-minded catcher.
If Kurtz embodies the explosive power hitter archetype, Baldwin represents the intelligent two-way leader every championship team needs.
Historically, Kurtz joins the ranks of legendary rookie sluggers like Rudy York (1937, 35 HRs), while Baldwin follows in the footsteps of standout rookie catchers who combined leadership with offensive impact.
What Makes Them “Elite Rookies”
Kurtz was drafted fourth overall, signing for $7 million, and spent just 33 games in the minors before reaching the majors. His rapid rise underscores how exceptional his talent truly is.
At Wake Forest University, his power and plate discipline were already MLB-ready, and in 2025, he proved it.
Baldwin, meanwhile, was known for his defensive skills and leadership long before his call-up. Adapting quickly to major league pitching, he became a stabilizing force for Atlanta’s pitching staff.
Their brilliance isn’t defined by stats alone—it’s about impact. Both filled crucial team needs, elevating their clubs from within and showing maturity far beyond their years.
From Rookie Glory to Future Greatness
Nick Kurtz’s unanimous Rookie of the Year crown is more than a personal triumph—it’s a declaration of a new era for the Oakland Athletics.
His four-homer game, coupled with the team’s 1-2 rookie finish, signals that the franchise’s rebuild has entered a promising phase.
For MLB fans, this is what makes the sport so captivating.
Kurtz and Baldwin are no longer just rookies—they’re the faces of tomorrow.
Next season, they’ll appear in every opponent’s scouting report, and the question becomes: Can they conquer the sophomore slump and rise even higher?
Watching them answer that question will be one of baseball’s greatest stories yet.