Nick Kurtz and the Story Behind His Quirky Nickname “Big Amish”

Baseball has always loved its legends, its underdogs, and especially its nicknames. From “The Sultan of Swat” to “The Iron Horse,” these names stick not just because of athletic greatness but because they capture something essential about the player behind them. Now, in 2025, a new name has emerged in the baseball world—Nick Kurtz, the Oakland Athletics rookie first baseman, affectionately called “Big Amish.”

But unlike many nicknames that simply highlight power, speed, or personality quirks, this one carries layers of cultural identity, hometown pride, and even a touch of playful irony. Though his family has clarified they are not Amish, the Lancaster County, Pennsylvania roots that shaped him have made this name part of his growing legend.

This article dives deep into Nick Kurtz’s rapid rise to Major League Baseball, the story of how “Big Amish” came to be, and why it represents more than just a funny locker-room label—it’s a symbol of community, resilience, and the journey of a small-town kid proving that big dreams can come true.

The Meteoric Rise of Nick Kurtz

At just 22 years old, Nick Kurtz has already become one of the most talked-about young stars in baseball. Drafted fourth overall in the MLB Draft 2024, his journey to the big leagues has been nothing short of astonishing. Most players spend years grinding through the minors, adjusting to professional life, and honing their skills against rising competition. Kurtz, however, spent less than a year in developmental leagues before stepping onto the Major League stage.

That kind of leap tells you two things:

1. His raw talent is undeniable.

2. His work ethic is relentless.

Scouts have long praised his combination of size, agility, and offensive instincts. Standing tall at first base, Kurtz brings not only a solid defensive presence but also a power-hitting ability that the Athletics desperately need. His quick transition from college-level competition to the majors demonstrates an athlete already ahead of his age.

But beyond the stats, it’s the human side of his story that has captivated fans—his connection to Lancaster, the playful nickname, and the grounded personality that keeps him approachable despite his fast rise to fame.

Lancaster Roots and Family Pride

Growing up in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, Kurtz was immersed in a community better known for its rolling farmlands and Amish culture than for producing professional athletes. As his mother Marie recalled:

| MARIE: “Kids from this area don’t really make it like that.” |

That sentiment wasn’t meant to discourage—it was simply a reality. Lancaster hasn’t been a hotbed for MLB prospects, and the odds for a kid making it from there to the professional stage were slim. But Kurtz’s journey flipped that expectation on its head.

From his earliest days playing ball at Manheim Township High School, to later transferring to Baylor School in Tennessee for both academics and athletics, Nick showed unusual dedication. His father, Jeff, often emphasized the family’s support in fueling that drive.

During spring training introductions, when asked to share where he was from, Kurtz confidently said:

| NICK KURTZ: “Lancaster, PA… we’re the home of the Amish and this is what we do.” |

It was a statement of pride in his roots, even if it sparked some humorous exchanges—like his younger sister Grace immediately chiming in:

| GRACE: “We’re not Amish!” |

That moment, innocent yet memorable, planted the seeds of what would become his now-famous nickname.

How “Big Amish” Was Born

Teammates and coaches quickly latched onto the phrase. Baseball clubhouses thrive on inside jokes, playful banter, and nicknames that bond the group. When Kurtz mentioned Amish culture during that spring training introduction, it was inevitable that something would stick. Soon enough, “Big Amish” became his moniker.

The name works on multiple levels:

• Size and presence: As a tall, powerful first baseman, “Big” fits naturally.

• Lancaster connection: Amish identity is one of the most recognizable aspects of his hometown.

• Cultural twist: The humor lies in the fact that Kurtz himself isn’t Amish, but his willingness to laugh along makes the nickname lighthearted rather than stereotypical.

Instead of rejecting it, Kurtz embraced “Big Amish” with humility. He knew it wasn’t about mislabeling him—it was about honoring his origins and standing out in a sport where individuality sometimes gets lost in statistics.

Breaking Stereotypes: From Lancaster to the Big Leagues

The story of Nick Kurtz is bigger than baseball. It’s a narrative about defying expectations. Lancaster County is rarely thought of as a birthplace for MLB-level stars. Farming, tourism, and cultural heritage define much of the area’s national image. Yet Kurtz has shown that greatness can emerge from anywhere.

His success challenges the unspoken belief his mom highlighted—that “kids from this area don’t really make it like that.” It’s proof that small towns and rural backgrounds don’t have to be limitations.

| NICK KURTZ: “I’ve always carried Lancaster with me, no matter where baseball has taken me.” |

That mindset resonates with fans, especially those from overlooked communities. Kurtz embodies the dream that one doesn’t have to come from a baseball hotbed to make it big—you just need relentless drive and support.

The Athletic Edge: Why Kurtz Stands Out

From a pure performance standpoint, Kurtz has the tools to dominate. Analysts point to his discipline at the plate, his ability to adjust to high-level pitching, and his strong defensive instincts at first base.

Unlike many young sluggers who rely solely on raw power, Kurtz blends patience with explosiveness. His strikeout-to-walk ratio shows maturity beyond his years. This balance is why he’s not just another rookie story—he’s a genuine Rookie of the Year contender in 2025.

But the mental aspect is equally important. Transitioning so quickly into MLB requires adaptability, humility, and confidence. Nick has shown all three.

Family Support: The Foundation of His Success

Behind every athlete’s rise, there’s usually a family story. For Kurtz, his parents and sister have been central. His father Jeff nurtured his baseball passion, often recalling how Nick spent endless hours in batting cages, regardless of weather.

| JEFF: “He’d be out there in the rain or snow. That’s just who he is—he doesn’t stop until he gets it right.” |

His mother Marie provided the balance, keeping him grounded and reminding him of his roots. Grace, meanwhile, adds humor and reality checks—like the now-iconic “We’re not Amish” moment.

This family dynamic reinforces why the nickname “Big Amish” works: it represents not just Nick’s persona but the playful, supportive environment that shaped him.

Why “Big Amish” Resonates with Fans

Sports fans love authenticity. In an era where athletes are often carefully branded, Kurtz’s nickname feels organic and human. It connects directly to his story, his hometown, and his willingness to laugh at himself.

The nickname also invites curiosity. Casual fans might ask, “Why is he called Big Amish?”—and from there, they learn about his Lancaster roots, his family, and his journey. It’s storytelling through branding.

And in baseball, where legends are built as much on character as performance, that matters. “Big Amish” could one day be mentioned alongside iconic nicknames if Kurtz continues his trajectory.

Cultural Significance: Amish Identity and Humor

Some might wonder if referencing Amish culture risks misunderstanding. But the way Kurtz and his family handle it removes tension. They’ve been clear: they’re not Amish, but they respect the identity and use it as a point of pride in representing Lancaster.

The nickname works because it’s playful, not mocking. It highlights the uniqueness of his background while reinforcing his individuality. Instead of distancing himself from it, Nick shows he can balance pride with humility—a rare quality in professional sports.

The Rookie of the Year Conversation

Entering the 2025 season, analysts have placed Nick Kurtz firmly in the conversation for American League Rookie of the Year. His quick ascension, consistent hitting, and mature approach at first base make him a standout.

If he wins, the nickname “Big Amish” could take on legendary status, etched in baseball lore alongside his early career achievements.

The Inspirational Takeaway

Ultimately, the story of Nick Kurtz isn’t just about home runs or fielding percentages. It’s about identity, community, and proving doubters wrong. From a region where “kids don’t really make it,” he’s making it—and doing so while carrying a playful nickname that honors his background.

He shows young athletes that you don’t need to abandon your roots to succeed. Instead, you can bring them with you, wear them proudly, and even let them shape your legacy.

| NICK KURTZ: “I’ll always be that kid from Lancaster, no matter how big the stage gets.” |

Wrap-Up

Nick Kurtz’s story is one of talent, humility, and identity. Drafted fourth overall in 2024, rising to the majors in less than a year, and already becoming a Rookie of the Year contender, he embodies everything baseball fans love about fresh talent.

The nickname “Big Amish” adds color to his journey—not as a stereotype, but as a proud nod to Lancaster, his family roots, and the humor that keeps him grounded.

For young athletes in small towns, his rise is proof that the path to greatness isn’t limited to big-city prospects. And for baseball fans, it’s the beginning of what could be the legend of “Big Amish.”