Why the Athletics Are a Surprising Contender & Solid Futures Bet
Sportsgrid Staff
Host · Writer
The Athletics were expected to be in transition mode, prepping for their future in Las Vegas. Instead, they’ve become one of the most intriguing teams in the American League. With a young core, an explosive offense, and a potential superstar waiting in the wings, the A’s might be more than just a feel-good story—they could be a sleeper playoff team in 2025.
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Nick Kurtz Is Ready for the Show
All eyes are on Nick Kurtz, and for good reason. The 2023 first-round pick is crushing minor league pitching with:
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7 home runs
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22 RBIs
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An OPS over 1.130
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Elite first base defense
Kurtz looks like a big-league-ready bat, and in an offense-first ballpark, his call-up could elevate the Athletics’ lineup into one of the most dangerous in the AL.
While Tyler Soderstrom has also impressed, Kurtz offers a defensive upgrade and appears to be MLB-ready far sooner than anticipated. He’s still available in over 40% of CBS leagues, making this possibly the last chance to stash him before he becomes a household name.
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Why the AL West Is Ripe for Disruption
The American League West isn’t as intimidating as in years past:
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Seattle’s offense continues to be inconsistent
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The Angels lack depth and star power beyond a few key pieces
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The Rangers and Astros have talent, but injury concerns and bullpen struggles loom
In this environment, the Athletics’ offensive firepower gives them a real chance to outslug their way into the Wild Card hunt.
What Oakland Does Well:
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Score in bunches — the A’s are near the top of the league in runs per game
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Develop young talent — their farm system continues to produce impact hitters
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Capitalize on weak competition — especially at home in their hitter-friendly park
Betting Value: A’s Futures and Fantasy Impact
With public perception still lagging behind performance, the Athletics are undervalued in most betting markets.
Futures Bets to Consider:
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Athletics to Make the Playoffs (+600 or longer): With a weak AL and an emerging lineup, this is a legit value play
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Athletics Over Win Total: If Kurtz is called up and produces, this team could outperform projections
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Division Exacta Bets: Pairing a favorite like Texas or Houston with Oakland second could yield strong payouts
From a fantasy baseball standpoint, now is the time to pick up Nick Kurtz, especially in redraft leagues. Once he’s called up, he’ll likely bat in the heart of the order and contribute immediately in both power and RBI categories.
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Oakland’s Bigger Picture: Building Toward Vegas
As the A’s transition to Las Vegas, having a marketable young star like Kurtz makes perfect sense. He could become the face of the franchise alongside other emerging talents. And with a playoff push possibly coming sooner than expected, the team has a narrative bettors and fans alike should be paying close attention to.
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