2025 MLB Draft Recap: Day 1 Highlights and Day 2 Selections

Day 1: Top Picks and Key Storylines

Day 1 of the 2025 MLB Draft featured several compelling storylines and surprising selections. The Washington Nationals selected Eli Willits, a high-upside shortstop with a strong baseball IQ. The Los Angeles Angels, known for their unconventional approach, chose Tyler Bremner, a college pitcher with premium stuff. The Seattle Mariners were ecstatic to land Kade Anderson, considered the most advanced arm in the class.

Other notable picks include Ethan Holliday, son of former MLB star Matt Holliday, going to the Colorado Rockies, and Liam Doyle, a dominant college pitcher, selected by the St. Louis Cardinals. Corona High School made history with multiple players drafted in the first round, highlighting the school's baseball program.

Day 2: Rounds 4-20

Day 2 of the draft saw teams focusing on depth and potential. Hundreds of prospects were selected across rounds 4-20, with a mix of high school and college players finding new homes. Several players with family ties to former major leaguers were also drafted, adding to the draft's narrative.

Late-round picks often provide hidden gems, and teams meticulously scouted players to identify potential future stars. The draft concluded with the selection of Shane Brinham by the Los Angeles Dodgers, earning him the title of "Mr. Irrelevant."

Seattle Mariners: An "Absolute Coup"

ESPN's Jeff Passan called the Seattle Mariners' selection of Kade Anderson an "absolute coup." Anderson, a left-handed pitcher from LSU, is considered one of the most advanced arms in the draft class and could potentially join the Mariners' rotation as early as next season. This pick is seen as a significant boost to the Mariners' already strong farm system and their future World Series aspirations. The Mariners also selected pitcher Casey Hintz (Arizona) in the 16th round and pitcher Cameron Appenzeller (Glenwood HS - IL) in the 19th round, adding depth to their pitching pool. Estevan Moreno (Notre Dame) was selected as a shortstop in the 20th round by the team as well.

Corona High School's Historic Draft

Corona High School in Southern California had an unprecedented draft, with four players selected, including two in the first round: Seth Hernandez (Pirates) and Billy Carlson (White Sox). Brady Ebel was selected in compensation round B by the Brewers. Ethin Bingaman was selected in the 20th round by Arizona, marking a historic moment for the school's baseball program and community.

Eli Willits, a shortstop from Fort Cobb-Broxton High School, was selected first overall by the Washington Nationals.

The Seattle Mariners drafted Kade Anderson, a left-handed pitcher from LSU. Experts consider this an "absolute coup" for the team's future.

The MLB Draft consists of 20 rounds.

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