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A's Slugger Nick Kurtz: Leadoff or Middle Order?
23 Feb
Summary
- Manager Kotsay considers Kurtz for leadoff to maximize at-bats.
- Kurtz's splits show better performance batting second or third.
- Kurtz views himself as a middle-of-the-order hitter.
Oakland A's manager Mark Kotsay is considering an unconventional strategy for the upcoming 2026 season: batting rookie sensation Nick Kurtz leadoff. This decision stems from a desire to provide Kurtz, who is considered the team's best hitter, with the most at-bats possible. Kotsay believes that maximizing his plate appearances, particularly in leverage situations late in games, can be highly productive.
Despite Kurtz's potential at the leadoff spot, his performance data from the previous season suggests he was more effective batting second or third. In those positions, he posted significantly higher batting averages and OPS. Kurtz himself aligns with this, viewing himself primarily as a middle-of-the-order bat, though he expressed willingness to bat anywhere the team needs him.
The A's lineup configuration in their recent Cactus League debut featured Kurtz batting leadoff, with Shea Langeliers, Tyler Soderstrom, Brent Rooker, and Jacob Wilson following in the subsequent spots. While manager Kotsay noted that the lineup is not yet set in stone, he indicated that the top five hitters are likely to remain consistent. The strategy of batting Kurtz and Langeliers first and second in spring games was primarily to afford them early at-bats before substituting them out.
