Nick Kurtz, or “Big Amish” as his teammates affectionately call him, is an up-and-coming figure in baseball, a first baseman who made his mark with the Oakland Athletics after being drafted fourth overall in 2024. Born in Lancaster, Pennsylvania on a chilly March day in 2003, Nick’s life has been woven with moments of quiet determination and bursts of talent. His early years were spent honing his skills in tee-ball, initiated by parents who recognized his potential, setting the stage for a future filled with home runs and highlights.

Nick’s baseball journey took root at Wake Forest University where, during his freshman year, he burst onto the scene with an impressive .338 batting average and 15 home runs. His sophomore season saw him ascend to further heights, yet it’s also hard to overlook those moments of torment in balancing a burgeoning baseball career and the weight of expectations. When he transferred from high school—was it Manheim Township or Baylor?—that likely contributed to his resilience, though it’s not entirely clear what pushed him through those teenage years.

The nickname “Big Amish” hints at both his remarkable height—6’5” and 240 pounds—and the rich cultural tapestry of his hometown, a community known for its Amish roots. With each home run, he celebrates by twirling his hands, a curious homage that leaves onlookers pondering the true essence of his connection to that lifestyle. This odd nod to tradition balances out the fact that he himself is not Amish, illuminating the whimsical nature of sports.

In 2025, Kurtz became the first rookie in MLB history to hit four home runs in a single game, a feat that echoed through the baseball world. Each swing of his bat tells a story layered with passion and pressure, deftly navigating this maze of talent. What does it mean, then, to be labeled a star, a rookie of the year at such a young age? Perhaps the answer lies somewhere between the bat’s impact and the quiet reflections each player carries during their journey.