Top names from the 2025 MLB draft that matter in fantasy - ESPN

Oklahoma high school infielder Ethan Holliday did not go with the No. 1 pick in the 2025 MLB draft, instead slipping to the fortunate Colorado Rockies at No. 4, but his was the notable name for fantasy baseball managers, and he figures to be first invested in for dynasty formats. Holliday, the son of longtime big leaguer Matt Holliday and brother of Baltimore Orioles 2B Jackson Holliday, is an emerging power hitter, and we couldn't ask for a better eventual home venue to showcase his talents than the altitude of Denver's Coors Field.

Then again, the precocious Holliday doesn't turn 19 until next February, and he is not going to play for the Rockies for years. This isn't the NFL or NBA, you know. Many (most) fantasy managers are quite impatient and looking for more immediate returns, and there is nothing wrong with that. College products — hitters, really — are inherently safer for projecting future statistical value. This draft, most notable for featuring another Holliday, myriad high school shortstops and left-handed college starting pitchers, was a unique one.

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Both of the Holliday kids should have wonderful careers, but they are different players. Scouts dream of the taller, bulkier Ethan Holliday surpassing 30 home runs in a season with regularity, either from shortstop or third base. Jackson Holliday, top pick from the 2022 draft and currently Baltimore's leadoff hitter with a .259 batting average, 12 home runs and nine stolen bases, boasts a greater hit tool and more speed. Proud father Matt Holliday hit 316 big league home runs and made three NL All-Star teams with the Rockies. Dynasty