By Will Peralta
The Washington Nationals have struck gold, securing the first pick in the 2025 MLB draft. This is the third time in franchise history the team will be picking first overall, having previously drafted Stephen Strasburg in 2009 and Bryce Harper in 2010.
The Nationals’ 2024 season was a challenging one, finishing with a 71-91 record. However, this disappointing season has turned into a blessing in disguise, as they now have the opportunity to add a talented young player to their roster.
Having the first pick in the draft is a game-changer for the Nationals. General Manager Mike Rizzo expressed his excitement, saying, “We’ll get the player of our choice, we’ll get money added to the player pool, which we can allocate in different ways throughout the Draft”.
So, who are the top prospects that the Nationals might consider with their first pick? Here are a few names to watch:
• Ethan Holliday: A 17-year-old lefty-hitting shortstop/third baseman from Stillwater High School in Oklahoma. He’s ranked as the number one prospect in the 2025 draft class by MLB Pipeline
• Jace LaViolette: A talented outfielder from Texas A&M, known for his impressive athleticism and bat
• Jamie Arnold: A left-handed pitcher from Florida State University, who profiles as a future ace with a lethal fastball/slider combo
These players, along with several others, will be closely watched by the Nationals as they prepare for the 2025 draft. With their young core of players, including Dylan Crews, James Wood, and Brady House, the Nationals are poised for a bright future.