Sun Jul 13 22:10:00 UTC 2025: **Nationals Face Tough Choice with No. 1 Pick as MLB Draft Looms**

**[City, State] –** The 2025 MLB Draft kicks off tonight at 6 p.m. ET on ESPN, with the Washington Nationals facing a critical decision with the No. 1 overall pick. Amidst a season without a clear-cut top prospect, the Nationals are reportedly weighing their options between high school standout Ethan Holliday and a group of college left-handed pitchers, including LSU’s Kade Anderson, Tennessee’s Liam Doyle, and Florida State’s Jamie Arnold.

According to MLB insider Kiley McDaniel, Anderson has gained traction as the potential top pick, while Holliday’s chances have diminished slightly. McDaniel suggests the Nationals might also consider a cost-effective option.

Several teams, including the Los Angeles Angels and Seattle Mariners, also face tough choices as the draft progresses. McDaniel highlights Tennessee’s Liam Doyle as a strong contender for the Angels at No. 2, citing his polish and potential for savings. Meanwhile, the Mariners are reportedly high on Kade Anderson, potentially selecting him at No. 3 if available. The final decisions are expected to come down to the wire.

The draft order and McDaniel’s predictions provide a glimpse into the potential strategies of various teams, with names like Seth Hernandez, Eli Willits, Jamie Arnold, and more in the mix. However, as McDaniel emphasizes, the situation remains fluid, and teams’ preferences could shift dramatically based on last-minute information and bonus negotiations.

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