The consensus on the 2025 MLB Draft is that it is wide open. That means there are a ton of different players the Nationals will be looking at with the number 1 pick in the draft. It also means that there is a chance for a big surprise on draft night. One player that could force his way into number 1 discussions is California high school shortstop Billy Carlson.
Carlson is a two way player right now, but he is going to be a full time shortstop in pro ball. However, he would be a pretty high pick on the mound too. He throws in the mid 90’s and has a solid breaking ball as well.
His arm is a massive asset for him in the field. Given he throws in the mid-90’s, it is no surprise to see scouts give the arm plus-plus grades. The arm gives Carlson the ability to be a plus defender at shortstop. Scouts consider him the best defensive shortstop in the class. That is an incredibly valuable thing to have, as up the middle defense is at a premium.
The bat is also advanced for a high school hitter. As you would expect, Carlson has been putting up absolute video game type numbers this spring. Right now he is a hit over power player, but he has shown flashes of over the fence impact. A lot of that has to do with his still slight frame. He is listed at 6’1 160 pounds, but hey, I was definitely a lot lighter in high school than I am now at 24.
With more strength, you would hope that more power comes as well. He already has great bat speed and makes contact quite a bit. The power really feels like the last piece of the puzzle.
One cool thing about Carlson is just how stacked his high school team is. There are three players from Corona High School inside of MLB Pipeline’s top 25 draft prospects. Teammate Seth Hernandez might actually be a candidate for the first pick, but taking a high school right handed pitcher feels too risky. However, he will be a first round pick. There is also Brady Ebel, who might be a first rounder, but also could be a target for the Nats if they wanted to go over slot at pick 49.
Imagine being a kid playing baseball at a California high school and having to face off against 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 Holliday as the best high schooler in the class. Carlson is a sure fire shortstop with an advanced bat and room to develop strength. Those kinds of players don’t grow on trees.