The Anticipation for the MLB Draft
The significant weekend is almost upon us, with just a few days remaining until the 2025 MLB Draft kicks off in Atlanta on Sunday during All-Star Week. Excitement is building as experts from MLB Pipeline have provided a comprehensive analysis in their latest podcast, covering all essential details.
Draft Summaries and Key Insights
You can find scouting reports, grades, and video for all mentioned players on MLB Pipeline’s Top 250 Draft list. Here are the nine main narratives to watch as the Draft approaches:
Draft Coverage Schedule:
Day 1 (Rounds 1-3): Sunday, July 13, 6 p.m. ET (MLBN/MLB.com/ESPN)
Day 2 (Rounds 4-20): Monday, July 14, 11:30 a.m. ET (MLB.com)
Will History Be Made with the Hollidays?
High school slugger Ethan Holliday could join his brother, Orioles second baseman Jackson Holliday, in becoming the first brother pair to go 1-1 in Draft history. Ranked as the top prospect on our list, Holliday seems to be the likely first pick, yet the Nationals have not confirmed their preference following significant leadership changes.
Could Seth Hernandez Make History?
If the Nationals choose prep right-hander Seth Hernandez, they would break a historical trend since no team has ever selected a high school pitcher first overall. Hernandez, older than most prep prospects at 19 on Draft day, ranks third overall and is an exceptional talent. Will he defy convention, or will he fall victim to historical trends?
The Angels’ Decision at Second Pick
There’s a strong belief that the Angels will select Anderson if he’s available. If not, they may not opt for Holliday instead. It’s plausible that Holliday could drop to the Rockies, giving the Angels various options, including selecting Jamie Arnold, the next college pitcher, or potentially pursuing a high school shortstop.
A Diverse Draft Class
This Draft class features a notable number of shortstops, with six of the top 13 prospects being prep shortstops, enhancing the overall strength of the Draft. In contrast, the group of college bats appears weaker, with only a couple of college position players ranked in the top tiers. However, there’s potential for movement as Draft day approaches, particularly for players like Aiva Arquette and Ike Irish.
