Major League Baseball’s amateur draft is set to kick off on Sunday, July 13th, shortly after the Washington Nationals used their third overall pick in franchise history. Eli Willitz, a high school shortstop and my top-ranked player in the final pre-draft top 30, did not secure the prestigious Oklahoma Prep Infader of the Year award, which instead went to Ethan Holliday.
Ethan Holliday is the youngest member of the celebrated Holliday baseball family in Oklahoma. His father, Matt Holliday, was an outfielder who made seven All-Star appearances and achieved over 40 career wins above replacement. Ethan’s older brother, Jackson, was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2022 draft and was an exceptional hitter for his age at 21 seasons. Having a well-known family name benefits Ethan by giving him recognition that other top prospects like Billy Carlson or JoJo Parker might not have. However, it also brings high expectations and sometimes more scrutiny compared to his peers.
Here are three key points about how Ethan Holliday’s approach to the game differs and what might shape his future:
1. A Different Style Than Jackson
People often assume sibling players have similar styles, but that’s not always the case. Jackson’s game leaned on his bat-to-ball skills and defensive prowess in center field, with added speed compensating for his relative lack of strength. Conversely, Ethan’s game is built on a solid approach and raw power, although he still needs to refine his swing. He has the potential to become a three-base hitter long term. Previously, I ranked Ethan as the sixth best prospect in his class, noting his left-handed bat, strong power, and good plate approach, though scouts remain cautious about his contact ability.
2. The Advantage of Matt Holliday’s Mentorship
Having a father like Matt Holliday provides a unique boost since Matt is regarded as an elite hitting coach who can offer tailored instruction and support to Ethan. While relationships with star relatives don’t always translate into success, Matt’s expertise seems to be positively influencing the family. Jackson recently improved his power numbers after working with Matt on his swing mechanics. This mentorship could bolster the Nationals’ confidence in Ethan’s potential.
3. A Historic Opportunity
There is strong speculation about whom the Nationals will pick first overall, with LSU’s left-handed pitcher Kade Anderson rumored as a frontrunner, though no final decision has been made. Should the Nationals select Ethan Holliday, it would mark the first time in MLB Draft history that two brothers were each chosen No. 1 overall in different years. This would place the Hollidays in rare company alongside other notable MLB siblings like the Uptons, the Youngs, and the Jungs, cementing their family’s legacy in baseball history.
Fan Take: This story is more than just about draft picks—it’s about baseball heritage and the pressure of living up to a family’s legacy. If Ethan Holliday lives up to his potential, it could add a compelling chapter to baseball’s narrative, showing how talent and mentorship within families can shape the sport’s future stars.
