Pittsburgh Pirates: Way Too Early Look at Potential 2024 Draft Picks

Nick Kurtz

Nick Kurtz is very much a possibility, even through a way too early lens. Kurtz isn’t projected to go as the number one overall pick. But he should still land within the top ten. On top of that, Kurtz is a fairly local kid. Born March 11th, 2003, Kurtz is a native of Lancaster. Kurtz is currently attending Wake Forest University, the silver finalist in the 2023 College World Series.

Kurtz has been nothing short of astounding with the bat for Wake Forest. Through 524 college plate appearances, the first baseman is slashing .345/.499/.708. Kurtz’s OBP and slugging percentage wouldn’t look out of place on the back of a Barry Bonds card. Kurtz has gone yard 39 times, which is a rate of 48 homers per 650 plate appearances.

While Kurtz might be a big slugging first baseman, he’s shown off an outstanding eye at the plate and the patience to match. He’s struck out just 88 times for a 16.8% strikeout rate, while also drawing 111 walks for a 21.2% walk rate. You’re not just getting a big slugger with little plate discipline but still has issues making contact.

Kurtz is also a fair athlete. He’s 6’5”, 235 pounds, but can more than hold his weight defensively over at first base. There’s little question about his raw power. He posted some excellent exit velocity numbers in his college career thus far. The offensive ceiling here is extremely high. While he might be a first baseman through and through, there’s no reason to believe he won’t at least be a solid one.