MLB Draft 2025 Scouting Report For Eli Willits to Nationals at Pick No. 1

With the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 draft, the Washington Nationals selected shortstop Eli Willits out of Fort Cobb-Broxton High School in Fort Cobb, Oklahoma.

Ahead is a closer look at what he brings to the table as he starts his pro career, along with a highlight reel and a pro comparison to provide further context for what his future might hold.

Scouting Report

Born: 12/9/2007 (17 years old)
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 180 lbs

Among this year's high school shortstop class, Eli Willits does not have the best hit tool (Kayson Cunningham), best power (Ethan Holliday), best speed (Steele Hall) or best glove (Billy Carlson), but he might have the most complete combination of those tools.

"While there are players in the 2025 class with louder individual tools or bigger power upside than Willits, it’s difficult to point to another player who has a game as well-rounded," reads his scouting report at Baseball America.

His power is the only tool that currently profiles as below-average, and with his 60-grade hit tool and terrific bat-to-ball skills, it's still reasonable to think he can run into 15 home runs per season.

Throw in his MLB bloodlines—his father, Reggie Willits, spent six seasons with the Angels and is currently on the coaching staff at Oklahoma—and there might not be a more well-rounded prospect in the entire 2025 draft class.

He should have no problem sticking at shortstop, but also has the speed and athleticism to profile well in center field if that makes more sense from an organizational standpoint.

A lot is made about future projection and long-term upside on draft day, but Willits stands out for his high floor and complete overall game that makes him a safe bet to become an impact big leaguer.

Highlights

Pro Comparison: peak Edgar Rentería

This might not seem like the sexiest comp for a top-tier prospect, but during his peak season in 2003, Edgar Rentería hit .330/.394/.480 with 47 doubles, 13 home runs, 100 RBI, 34 steals and 5.6 WAR while winning a Silver Slugger and Gold Glove for the Cardinals.

He was a five-time All-Star who was a legitimate five-tool talent at the shortstop position, albeit with a 15-homer ceiling. That's the type of player Willits can be if all the pieces fall into place.