Nationals Top Pick Eli Willits Dazzles in Pro Debut

Eli Willits, the Washington Nationals' number one overall pick in the 2025 MLB Draft, made an impressive professional debut with the Single-A Fredericksburg Nationals, demonstrating advanced skills and maturity despite being just 17 years old. In his first game, Willits went 3-for-4 with a walk, two RBIs, a run scored, and a stolen base, showing both contact ability and aggressive base running. Scouts have praised his plate discipline and high motor, comparing him to established players like Geraldo Perdomo, and he is expected to quickly move up in the organization. Willits is the third youngest first overall pick in MLB history and follows in the footsteps of Nationals stars Stephen Strasburg and Bryce Harper as the franchise's third number one selection. His debut was highly anticipated, with reports confirming his promotion to Fredericksburg coming shortly after the season began. The debut marks a significant milestone for the Nationals as they integrate their top prospect into full-season professional baseball.