Eli Willits Taken by Nationals No. 1 in MLB Draft, Youngest Top Pick Since Griffey

The Washington Nationals selected shortstop Eli Willits with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 MLB Draft on Sunday.

At 17 years and seven months old, Willits is the youngest prospect in the 2025 draft class and became the youngest top overall draft choice since Ken Griffey Jr. in 1987, via MLB.com's Jason Foster.

Fans discussed the Nationals' selection.

Willits is from Fort Cobb-Broxton High School in Fort Cobb, Oklahoma. He's currently committed to the University of Oklahoma.

He stood out as part of the 18U Team USA squad in 2024, owning a .345 on-base percentage and racking up four RBIs in eight games (h/t Foster).

Willits is a switch-hitter and has shown promise defensively, with Bleacher Report's Joel Reuter comparing him to five-time All-Star Edgar Rentería in his scouting report.

"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," Reuter wrote.

Willits is also the son of former MLB outfielder Reggie Willits, who appeared in 414 total games with the then-Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim from 2006-11.

The Nationals are in the midst of a disappointing 2025 season, sitting at the bottom of the National League East standings with a 38-58 record. Washington fired president of baseball operations Mike Rizzo and manager Dave Martinez on July 6.

As the Nationals look to build towards the future, they added Willits to their young core on Sunday.