The 2025 Draft class exhibits greater variability than typical, leading to uncertainties just over two months before the Nationals will utilize the No. 1 overall pick on July 13 during the All-Star Game events in Atlanta.
Consensus suggests that high school players shortstop Ethan Holliday and right-hander Seth Hernandez are the top two prospects. However, this does not guarantee that Washington will choose either player. Holliday faced challenges during last summer’s showcase circuit, and no high school right-handed pitcher has ever been selected first overall. While they remain frontrunners, rumors imply that the Nationals are exploring various options, including college left-handers Jamie Arnold, Kade Anderson, and Liam Doyle, as well as college shortstop Aiva Arquette and high school shortstop Eli Willits.
Prep infielders are evidently the strongest aspect of this Draft, with our initial estimation indicating eight will be selected within the top 15 picks, and a total of ten among the first 27. Notably, the Mets, Yankees, and Dodgers have seen their top selections pushed down 10 spots into the supplemental first round for exceeding the competitive balance tax threshold.
Top Prospects Overview
1. Nationals: Ethan Holliday, SS/3B, Stillwater (Okla.) HS (No. 1)
Ultimately, the Nationals may choose between Holliday and Hernandez, although they are less hesitant about selecting a high school right-hander. If selected, Ethan would be the second Holliday to be picked No. 1 in four years, following his brother Jackson. He has a solid build reminiscent of their father, Matt, a seven-time All-Star, and showcases impressive power and defensive skills at third base.
Upcoming Draft Picks
2. Angels: Liam Doyle, LHP, Tennessee (No. 10)
The Angels have consistently had the first pick reach the big leagues from the last three drafts. They are primarily interested in the top college left-handers, with Doyle standing out due to his high strikeout rate from a mid-90s fastball. Concerns remain about his reliance on fastballs and unconventional pitching style. Should they pursue a bat, Arquette might be the choice.
Further Prospects and Predictions
3. Mariners: Kade Anderson, LHP, Louisiana State (No. 9)
The Mariners might consider Hernandez but are likely to favor a college pitcher. Anderson, as one of the leading college sophomores, possesses a traditional delivery and a versatile four-pitch arsenal that has positioned him among the strikeout leaders this season.
4. Rockies: Seth Hernandez, RHP, Corona (Calif.) HS (No. 2)
The Rockies may hesitate to choose a high school right-hander due to past failures. However, Hernandez’s remarkable skill set, featuring a triple-digit fastball, an advanced changeup, and high-spin breaking pitches, may tempt them. If Holliday’s name is not called first, Hernandez could easily land in Colorado.
