US EditionNationals Take 17-Year-Old Eli Willits with No. 1 Pick in Draft
FULTON COUNTY, GEORGIA, JUL 12 – Eli Willits, the youngest ever first overall pick, reclassified to graduate early aiming to reach MLB by 20, chosen for his hitting, defense, and strong makeup, Nationals said.
- In Atlanta’s Roxy Theater on Sunday night, the Nationals selected 17-year-old shortstop Eli Willits first overall, making him the youngest-ever No.1 draft pick.
- Following last week’s franchise shakeup, the Nationals' first overall pick came just a week after firing GM Mike Rizzo and manager Dave Martinez.
- Scout Danny Haas praised Willits' routine defense at 17, highlighting his potential for a below-slot signing bonus to help the Nationals' budget strategy.
- According to interim GM Mike DeBartolo, Willits was the draft’s best hitter and fielder, praised for rare makeup and intangibles, making the selection easy.
- At only 17, Willits won't turn 18 until December, with youth suggesting strong long-term potential, as experts note age benefits career longevity.
220 Articles
220 Articles
Eli Willits drafted by Washington Nationals with No. 1 overall pick in MLB draft
The Washington Nationals selected Oklahoma high school shortstop Eli Willits with the No. 1 pick in Major League Baseball’s amateur draft in a selection seen by some as a surprise.
Kingsport Times-News
Nationals take high school shortstop Eli Willits with No. 1 pick in draft
ATLANTA — The Washington Nationals selected Oklahoma high school shortstop Eli Willits on Sunday night with the No. 1 pick in Major League Baseball’s amateur draft in a selection seen by some as a surprise.
The Baltimore Sun
Orlando SentinelNationals take shortstop Eli Willits with No. 1 pick in MLB draft
ATLANTA — The Washington Nationals selected Oklahoma high school shortstop Eli Willits on Sunday night with the No. 1 pick in Major League Baseball’s amateur draft in a selection seen by some as a surprise. The 17-year-old Willits is the youngest player taken No. 1 overall since Ken Griffey Jr. with Seattle in 1987. He’s the son of ex-big leaguer Reggie Willits, who played six seasons with the Los Angeles Angels and also coached with the New Yor…
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