July 11, 2025

University Star Ethan Holliday Could Be Top MLB Draft Pick

News Summary

Ethan Holliday, a promising shortstop from Stillwater High School, is making headlines as a potential top pick in the upcoming MLB Draft. With a strong family legacy in baseball, including his brother, the No. 1 pick in 2022, Ethan is attracting attention for his athletic prowess and commitment to Oklahoma State University. Despite concerns about his recent performance and contact skills, scouts are hopeful about his potential to become an elite player in the professional arena.

STILLWATER, OK – Ethan Holliday, an 18.3-year-old shortstop from Stillwater High School, is generating buzz as a leading candidate for the top overall pick in the upcoming 2025 MLB Draft. Holliday, who has committed to play for Oklahoma State University, is gaining recognition for his exceptional skills and impressive background as the younger brother of Jackson Holliday, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2022 MLB Draft.

The Holliday family has a storied history in baseball, underscored by their father, Matt Holliday, a former Major League Baseball player with seven All-Star appearances. Ethan stands at an impressive 6-foot-4, bats left-handed, and is known for his raw power potential at the plate. The combination of his physical attributes and baseball lineage has positioned him as a top prospect, with predictions suggesting he could be selected first overall by the Washington Nationals or fourth overall by the Colorado Rockies.

If Ethan Holliday is chosen as the No. 1 pick, it will mark a historic moment in sports history, as it would be the first time two brothers have been selected as the top overall picks in Major League Baseball. Currently, he is ranked 31st in MLB’s top 100 prospects, showcasing his potential in the competitive landscape of professional baseball.

Concerns and Potential

Despite his promising prospects, Holliday’s performance during recent summer games has raised some concerns amongst scouts, particularly regarding his ability to consistently make contact against pro-level pitching. His current hit tool is rated close to a 40-grade by some evaluators, which could translate to a batting average around .230 if adjustments aren’t made. Additionally, there are worries about his power potential, with some assessments suggesting he may hit only around 20 home runs unless he demonstrates improved contact abilities.

Nevertheless, experts remain cautiously optimistic about his future. Scouts have noted positive changes in Holliday’s swing mechanics, including the addition of a toe tap, which they find encouraging. With further development, they project that he could evolve into a .250 hitter with a robust walk rate, aiming for a range of 25-30 home runs. His defensive skills are also projected to be above average at third base.

Family Influence and Support

The pressure on Ethan Holliday is notably intensified by his family’s deep roots in baseball. His grandfather, Tom Holliday, was a longtime Division I coach, while his uncle, Dave, serves as a veteran scout for the Philadelphia Phillies. This family dynamic creates both high expectations and a supportive environment for Ethan as he navigates the challenges of becoming a professional athlete.

As the draft approaches, the expectation surrounding Holliday will continue to build, especially with significant years ahead in early professional games. However, the blending of his unique talent, family legacy, and recent improvements could very well solidify his status among the elite prospects available in the 2025 MLB Draft.

Looking Ahead

With the possibility of making history as the No. 1 overall pick and the inherent pressure of following in his brother’s footsteps, Ethan Holliday is a name to watch in the lead-up to the 2025 MLB Draft. As scouts keep an eye on his development and performance, the months ahead will be crucial in determining how this young star’s career will unfold.