Earlier this week, the city of West Sacramento recognized Major League Baseball player and 2025 American League Jackie Robinson Rookie of the Year Nick Kurtz, who plays for the city’s own Athletics, at the most recent Board of Commissioners meeting.
During the Jan. 20 meeting, the board passed a resolution declaring the date as Nick Kurtz Day after Kurtz was named the American League Rookie of the Year Award winner, a major league honor recognizing the most outstanding first-year player in each league.
Kurtz went on to hit .290 with 36 home runs and 86 RBIs in 117 games, leading all MLB rookies in homers and OPS (1.002) despite a late April debut. Kurtz’s OPS (1.002) is the highest ever for a rookie with at least 400 plate appearances, according to the MLB.
West Sacramento Mayor Martha Guerrero and Sacramento Mayor Kevin McCarty both spoke at Tuesday’s meeting, highlighting the drive and discipline Kurtz embodies.
“As a rookie, you didn’t just meet expectations, you exceeded them,” Guerrero said. “You played with confidence, consistency, and composure well beyond your years. And you set a standard that inspires teammates, fans, and especially young athletes here.”