Eli Willits: The Future of Baseball or Bold Gamble?
This July 14, 2025, the Washington Nationals made MLB Draft history by selecting 17‑year‑old shortstop Eli Willits with the No. 1 overall pick. At just 17 years and seven months old, he’s the youngest top selection ever, surpassing Ken Griffey Jr.’s 1987 record. Hailing from Fort Cobb, Oklahoma, and reclassified into the 2025 draft class, Willits boasts a dazzling senior season: a .516 batting average, nine homers, and 48 stolen bases.
His selection follows a dramatic week at the Nationals, who let go longtime GM Mike Rizzo and manager Dave Martinez after six consecutive losing seasons. Interim GM Mike DeBartolo deemed Willits “the best hitter and fielder in the draft,” applauding his maturity, swing, and defensive instincts. Scouts later praised Willits for his plate discipline, contact skills, and switch‑hitting—all strong indicators of long‑term success.
What Makes Willits Special?
Eli’s mystique isn’t just hype—it’s supported by metrics and pedigree:
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Scouting grades (20–80 scale): Hit 60, Run 60, Field 55, Arm 55—overall 60, per MLB Pipeline.
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Athletic profile: A 6'1", 180‑lb switch‑hitter with a smooth swing, plus arm, and quick feet.
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Defense and range: Agile, with strong double‑play footwork and instinctual fielding.
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Baseball IQ & pedigree: Son of former MLB outfielder and coach Reggie Willits; comes from a baseball‑savvy family.
Draft Storylines
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Young + bold: Willits set a record as the youngest No. 1 ever—third-youngest after reclassification.
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Unexpected pick: Senators and analysts favored college arms Kade Anderson or Ethan Holliday, but the Nats went all-in on Willits.
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Record shortstop class: This draft featured a jaw-dropping 17 shortstops in Round 1—the most ever.
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Organizational bet: Amid internal shakeup, Washington looks to restock its farm system via elite upside.
Eli Willits vs. Other Top Picks
| Trait | Eli Willits | Other No.1 Picks |
|---|---|---|
| Age at draft | 17 yrs, 7 mo (youngest ever) | Typically 18–22 |
| Position | Switch‑hitting shortstop | Varies (pitchers, sluggers, etc.) |
| Hit tool | Grade 60 | Mixed |
| Power projection | Developing (45 grade) | Often higher but tool-dependent |
| Defensive projection | Plus range/arm (55/55 grades) | Mixed |
| Draft context | Surprise pick during rebuild | Ranges from rebuild to win-now |
| Pedigree | Son of Reggie Willits | Varies |
Things to Watch This Season
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Signing Bonus & Contract
Willits is expected to sign below the $11.08M slot, giving the Nationals bonus flexibility for depth picks. -
Development Path
Look for a fast-tracked climb through Single-A and High-A in 2026, with possible debut in 2027. -
Power growth
His .516 average and nine homers are impressive, but scouts want to see more raw pop emerging. -
Positional stability
Though he excels at shortstop now, his long-term position depends on physical maturation—stay tuned for shift rumors. -
Intangibles & leadership
Scouts emphasize maturity, work ethic, and plate discipline—traits valued in clubhouse leaders.
Conculsion
Eli Willits isn’t just a splashy pick—he's a multitalented athlete with raw skills, baseball IQ, and maturity. His selection reflects the Nationals’ aggressive push to rebuild around homegrown talent. At 17, he’ll be tested through pro ball this fall. If his hit tools, defense, and drive translate, he could reinvigorate a franchise in need of youth, zeal, and star power.
