The Legacy of Baseball Families

Eli Willits and Ethan Holliday, two standout high school baseball players from Oklahoma, are set to make their mark in the 2025 MLB Draft. Both young athletes share a common bond: their fathers, Reggie Willits and Matt Holliday, are former Major League Baseball (MLB) outfielders. Their journey to the draft is a testament to their dedication, hard work, and the influence of their baseball lineage.

Eli Willits: A Surreal Moment at Angel Stadium

Eli Willits, son of former Los Angeles Angels outfielder Reggie Willits, has always dreamed of following in his father's footsteps. One of Eli's earliest baseball memories is playing catch with his dad in the Angel Stadium outfield. In late June, Eli returned to the same field for a private workout with the Angels, who hold the No. 2 pick in the draft. Reggie described the experience as surreal, watching his son take ground balls and hit in the same stadium where he played his entire career.

Ethan Holliday: Carrying the Family Legacy

Ethan Holliday, son of Matt Holliday, who finished second in the 2007 National League MVP voting, has also been inspired by his father's success. Ethan fondly remembers visiting Busch Stadium to watch his dad play for the St. Louis Cardinals. With the Colorado Rockies and Cardinals holding early picks in the draft, Ethan hopes to continue the Holliday family legacy in MLB.

The Road to the Draft

Both Eli and Ethan have learned from their fathers the importance of hard work and dedication. Eli recalls a conversation with his dad about the realities of professional baseball, including early morning workouts. Despite the challenges, Eli remains committed to following in his father's footsteps. Ethan, on the other hand, has benefited from his brother Jackson's experience as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2022 draft. Jackson's journey has provided Ethan with valuable insights into the draft process.

The Future of Oklahoma Baseball

The Willits and Holliday families have significantly raised the profile of Oklahoma baseball. Matt Holliday's brother, Josh, is the head coach at Oklahoma State, continuing the family's coaching legacy. Ethan's brother, Jackson, is already making waves in the MLB as a second baseman for the Baltimore Orioles. Both Eli and Ethan are expected to hear their names called early in the draft, further cementing their families' impact on the sport.

A Friendship Forged on the Field

Despite the competitive nature of the draft, Eli and Ethan have formed a close friendship through baseball. They often text each other about their lives, leaving baseball discussions aside. Both players are proud of their Oklahoma roots and are excited to represent their state on the national stage.

Conclusion

As the 2025 MLB Draft approaches, Eli Willits and Ethan Holliday stand on the brink of fulfilling their dreams. Their journey is a testament to the power of family, hard work, and the love of the game. Whether they are drafted by the Angels, Rockies, or another team, one thing is certain: the legacy of the Willits and Holliday families will continue to shine in the world of baseball.