The Washington Nationals made a surprise pick selecting high school shortstop Eli Willits
The Washington Nationals have made Eli Willits the youngest number one pick in MLB Draft history. Willits, who reclassified from the 2026 class does not turn 18 until December. From Oklahoma, he has been in the shadow of fellow Oklahoma high schooler Ethan Holliday.
Like Holliday, Willits is the son of a big leaguer. Reggie Willits played for the Angels for six years. His father has done a good job with his kid, as Eli is an exceptionally polished player for his age.
ELI WILLITS LETS GET IT BABY
– Youngest player in the draft (17 yo)
– SS: 55 grade arm, 55 grade field
– 60 grade run & 60 grade hitI love this pick. Will go into depth later, but Willits has both high floor and a high ceiling as a HS player. pic.twitter.com/XdiDPZp3ET
— Nats Of The Future (@NatsOfTheFuture) July 13, 2025
Willits has four above average tools with his power projecting to be closer to average. The Nationals are also likely to get a very underslot deal with Willits. If they thought that Willits was an equivalent talent to Holliday, there are some things that would give Willits the high schooler.
For one, Willits is not a Scott Boras client, which makes him easier to negotiate with both for a signing bonus and a potential extension. A lower bonus gives the Nationals more money to play with down the board.
THE O N E pic.twitter.com/5YHu1znCS0
— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) July 13, 2025
I think this is a solid pick. Willits is easily a top 5 talent in the draft and will not cost as much as Holliday. Welcome to DC Eli and I hope to see you in the big leagues soon!