WASHINGTON (7News) — Time is ticking on Eli Willits’ career clock.
The Nationals’ No. 1 overall selection in the 2025 Major League Baseball amateur draft is on a countdown to making it on the big club roster.
“I’ve set a goal to be in the big leagues by the time I’m 20, and that’s something I’m really excited to do. Hopefully, I get out there and start playing well and that can be something I can accomplish in the next few years.”
The 17-year-old officially signed his deal with the team.
Willits was the youngest player picked first overall since Ken Griffey, Jr, by Seattle in 1987.
Nationals Interim General Manager Mike DeBartolo praised Willits after taking charge of the new Nationals era after being promoted to the role following the firing of former general manager Mike Rizzo and manager Dave Martinez on July 6th.
“One of the things that attracted us to Eli was how motivated he is, his work ethic, how focused he is,” DeBartolo said.
“I love that about him. Certainly, I’m not going to put any timelines on anybody. He hasn’t stepped on a pro field yet, but I love that that’s his outlook and we’re certainly going to do everything we can to make that possible.”
DeBartolo said Willits’ journey will begin with workouts at the team’s spring training home in West Palm Beach, Florida.
Willits added:
I’m grateful for the opportunity that the Nationals gave me. Not many people get to come up here and be the No. 1 overall pick.