Ethan Holliday has emerged as the favorite to be selected first overall in the 2025 MLB Draft, with the Washington Nationals currently holding the top pick for the event scheduled for July 13 in Atlanta, Georgia.
The high school senior from Stillwater, Oklahoma would be following in familiar footsteps if selected first. His older brother, Jackson Holliday, was the last high schooler to go first overall when the Baltimore Orioles selected him in 2022.
"With his 6-foot-4 frame and considerable power from the left side, plus elite plate discipline for an 18-year-old, Holliday presents a rare package of skills," according to draft analysts tracking the top prospects.
While the Nationals might be tempted to address pitching needs with their prized selection, Holliday's exceptional talent might simply prove too compelling to pass up. This would mark Washington's third time making the first overall selection, having previously drafted Stephen Strasburg and Bryce Harper in consecutive years (2009, 2010).
If Washington does opt for pitching, LSU standout Kade Anderson sits second on oddsmakers' boards. The left-hander impressed with an 11-1 record and 3.44 ERA during his junior season, including a masterful seven-inning performance against Arkansas where he allowed just one run on three hits while striking out seven.
Interestingly, The Athletic's Keith Law isn't as high on Anderson, ranking him eighth overall while identifying Tennessee lefty Liam Doyle as the draft's best pitcher. Doyle's stock has risen after striking out an eye-popping 164 batters in just 95 2/3 innings in 2025, featuring a fastball that sits 96-99 mph with exceptional control.
The Nationals secured the top pick through the draft lottery at the 2024 Winter Meetings, entering with a 10.2% chance of winning. Meanwhile, despite finishing with MLB's worst record, the Chicago White Sox will select 10th due to draft lottery rules. Odd how that works, isn't it?
Several teams received additional picks through various mechanisms, including the Royals (through the prospect promotion incentive for Bobby Witt Jr.), while the Dodgers, Mets, and Yankees each received 10-pick penalties for exceeding luxury tax thresholds.
Will the Nationals opt for Holliday's pedigree and potential, or surprise everyone by addressing their pitching needs? We'll find out when the draft begins on July 13.
