The consensus for the 2025 MLB draft is that it is wide open. This means there are a lot of different players the Nationals are watching on the first pick of the draft. It also means there will be a great opportunity for a great surprise on draft night. One player who can force his path into the number one argument is California High School Shortstop Billy Carlson.
Carlson is currently a two-way player, but is set to become a full-time shortstop for the pro ball. But he’ll also be a pretty high pick on the mound. He throws in the mid-90s and also has a solid breakball.
His arm is a massive asset for him on the field. Given that he threw in the mid-90s, it’s no surprise to see the scouts give him the Arm Plus Plus Grade. The arm gives Carlson the ability to become a positive defender with a short stop. Scouts are thinking of him The best defensive shortstop In class. The central defense is in premium, so it’s invaluable.
Bats are also making progress for high school batters. As you can imagine, Carlson is absolutely standing Video Game Type Number This spring. He is currently hit on a power player, but shows a flash of impact on the fence. Much of it relates to his still small frame. He’s listed at 6’1 160 pounds, but hey, I was definitely much lighter in high school than I was 24 years old.
I hope that by being more powerful, you will have more power. He already has great bat speed and is in good contact. The power really feels like the final piece of a puzzle.
One cool thing about Carlson is how stacked up his high school team is. Among the MLB Pipeline’s top 25 draft prospects are three players from Corona High School. Teammate Seth Hernandez may actually be the first pick candidate, but taking a high school right-handed pitcher can be far too dangerous. But he will be his first round pick. There is also Brady Ebel, who may be the first round, but could be a NAT target if he wants to cross the slot on a pick 49.
Imagine a kid playing baseball at California High School and having to face that team! Corona is one of the most stacked high school teams in recent memory, and I think Billy Carlson is their best player. He also rivals Ethan Holiday as the best high school student in his class. Carlson is a surefire short stop with room to develop advanced bats and strength. These types of players do not grow on trees.
