Eli Willits, son of former MLB player Reggie Willits at the age of 17 goes No.1 overall in the 2025 MLB Session. Discover his journey, stats, dad’s legacy, and next steps.
🧭 Background & Draft Day Buzz
The Washington Nationals stunned the baseball world by picking 17‑year‑old shortstop Eli Willits with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 MLB Draft. Willits is the youngest No. 1 draftee since Ken Griffey Jr. in 1987—just 17 years and seven months old. His selection kicked off a record of 17 shortstops taken in the first round, surpassing prior marks.
⚾ Eli Willits’ Profile & Skills
A switch-hitting shortstop from Fort Cobb-Broxton High School, Oklahoma.
Senior year stats: .516 batting average, 9 HRs, and 48 stolen bases. Scouts praise his 60-grade hit tool, excellent glove, arm strength, and maturity—power is seen as “emerging”. MLB.com notes he excels at contact, plate discipline, and fielding routine plays with ease
👨👦 Reggie Willits’ Legacy & Role
Eli’s father, Reggie Willits, played in the Los Angeles Angels team for six seasons (2006–11), hitting .258 and stealing 40 bases. After retiring, Reggie coached first base with the New York Yankees, then moved into a leadership role with the Oklahoma Sooners since 2022. His guidance has shaped Eli’s skillset and maturity—a trait noted by scouts and media.
🎯 Draft Reaction & Scouts’ Perspective
Interim GM Mike DeBartolo praised Willits as the “best hitter and best fielder” in the draft, plus praised his maturity. Scouting director Danny Haas highlighted Willits’ mastery of routine plays at a young age. Bleacher Report’s scouting gave high marks to his hit, arm, glove, and speed, projecting 15–20 homers annually with steady growth. Analysts note his youth and lack of agent Scott Boras could give the Nationals financial flexibility on his signing bonus.
📊 Eli’s Draft Stats & Family Impact
Reclassified to the class of 2025, he stands at 6′1″, 180 lbs, right-handed thrower. One of multiple second‑generation MLB players this draft; notable alongside others like Ethan Holliday. He committed to University of Oklahoma but likely signs professionally, foregoing college
🔮 Future Outlook & Expectations
Nationals are rebuilding after consecutive losing seasons and front-office changes involving GM Mike Rizzo and manager Dave Martinez. Willits is expected to enter the Nationals’ development pipeline and start soon in minors. With a well-rounded skill set, maturity, and family support, he could be a franchise cornerstone—especially if power develops .