The 2025 MLB Draft delivered a jaw-dropping twist that left fans, analysts, and insiders reeling. For months, the consensus was clear: Ethan Holliday, the highly touted shortstop and son of former MLB star Matt Holliday, was the presumed No. 1 overall pick for the Washington Nationals. Yankees fans, in particular, felt a connection to the Holliday name, having cheered for Matt during his gritty, veteran-led stint with the 2017 Yankees. His leadership, even as his bat faded late in the season, left a lasting impression. Ethan’s older brother, Jackson, the No. 1 pick in 2022, has already carved his own path with the Baltimore Orioles, narrowly missing the 2025 All-Star nod (hats off to Gleyber Torres for stealing that spotlight).
But the Nationals, fresh off the shocking dismissal of GM Mike Rizzo just a week prior, flipped the script entirely. In a move that sent shockwaves through the baseball world, they bypassed Ethan Holliday and selected Eli Willits—another shortstop and the son of former Yankees first base coach Reggie Willits—as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 MLB Draft.
A Surprise That Stings
Eli Willits, a 17-year-old prodigy who won’t turn 18 until December, wasn’t on anyone’s radar for the top spot. Yet, the Nationals saw something special. Reggie Willits, a scrappy outfielder for the Angels before serving as the Yankees’ first base coach from 2018 to 2021, passed down more than just baseball wisdom to his son. Eli’s game is a masterclass in instincts and athleticism, with a hit tool that’s turning heads. His power may still be developing, but at his age, there’s ample time for growth. In a city craving stability amid front-office chaos, Willits represents a bold, high-upside gamble.
Meanwhile, Ethan Holliday, once seen as the draft’s crown jewel, now heads to the Colorado Rockies, where he’ll follow in his father’s footsteps and aim to reignite local excitement. The Rockies, desperate for a spark, will look to Ethan’s pedigree and raw talent to fuel their rebuild.
Why Willits? Why Now?
The Nationals’ decision to go with Willits over Holliday raises eyebrows, but the reasoning is starting to crystallize. Eli’s defensive prowess at shortstop is undeniable—his range, quick hands, and baseball IQ make him a potential Gold Glove candidate down the line. Offensively, his contact skills are advanced, with a smooth swing that sprays line drives to all fields. While the home run pop isn’t there yet, scouts rave about his frame and projectable power, especially as he matures physically.
Washington’s choice also signals a shift in philosophy. With Rizzo out, the organization appears to be embracing a youth-driven, high-ceiling approach. Willits, with his intangibles and room to grow, fits that mold perfectly. The chaos in D.C. might just be the perfect backdrop for a prospect like Eli to thrive.
What’s Next for the Yankees?
Yankees fans, still stinging from the loss of Juan Soto and the luxury tax penalties that pushed their first pick to No. 39, will have to wait to see how their draft unfolds. While they missed out on both Holliday and Willits, New York’s scouting department has a knack for finding gems later in the draft. Stay tuned for updates on their selections and how they plan to reload for another run at glory.
The 2025 MLB Draft has already delivered drama, surprises, and a new name to watch in Eli Willits. As the Nationals bet on his potential to anchor their future, the baseball world will be watching closely to see if this bold pick pays off—or if Ethan Holliday gets the last laugh in Colorado.