Born to be a Colorado Rockie, Rockies select Ethan Holliday Fourth Overall, Continuing the Family Legacy

On Sunday evening, the Rockies made one of, if not, the biggest draft selection in recent history by selecting shortstop Ethan Holliday with the fourth overall pick. He follows in his father's footsteps by being picked by Colorado. Matt Holliday was taken in the seventh round of the 1998 draft. The pick not only adds a high-upside prospect to the Rockies' rebuilding efforts, but also deepens the family's connection with the organization.

Holliday was ranked as MLB Pipeline's No. 1 draft prospect and was strongly considered a candidate for the top overall pick to the Washington Nationals for some time. However, Washington went the other route by saving some money and drafted another Oklahoma prep star in 17-year-old shortstop Eli Willits with the first pick, followed by college pitchers Tyler Bremner (Angels) and Kade Anderson (Mariners). This allowed the Rockies to land Holliday.

Holliday’s skill set is distinct from his older brother, Jackson, the No. 1 overall pick by the Orioles in 2022. While Jackson is known for his contact-oriented approach and middle-infield agility, Ethan’s game is built on raw power and a frame that mirrors his father’s. Scouts praise his smooth swing, quick hands, and ability to drive the ball to all fields, projecting him as a potential 30-homer, 100-RBI threat in the majors. Though he played shortstop in high school, his size and arm strength suggest a likely transition to third base or a corner outfield spot, much like his father, who became a standout left fielder for Colorado.

The Rockies’ selection of Holliday is more than a nod to nostalgia. The team, mired in a challenging 2025 season with a 22-74 record, is in dire need of a cornerstone talent to anchor their rebuild. Holliday’s elite offensive potential, combined with his baseball pedigree, makes him a perfect fit for Coors Field, where his power could thrive in the hitter-friendly altitude. Despite some concerns about swing-and-miss tendencies—Holliday whiffed on 37% of in-zone fastballs during last summer’s showcase circuit—recent mechanical adjustments have alleviated doubts, showcasing his adaptability and work ethic.

The Holliday family’s ties to the Rockies add an emotional layer to the pick. Matt Holliday, a seven-time All-Star, was a cornerstone of the 2007 “Rocktober” team that reached the World Series. Ethan, who was just eight months old during that run, grew up around Coors Field, often seen toddling in the clubhouse. “The organization has a special place in my heart, in our family’s heart,” Matt said after the draft. “It’s a cool story. It’s exciting for him and the organization.” Ethan echoed the sentiment, noting a gut feeling that Denver was his destiny.

For Rockies fans, this pick feels like a warm hug after a rough 2025 season—22 wins and 74 losses will do that to you. The team’s been searching for a spark, someone to build around as they claw their way back to relevance. Ethan could be that guy. He’s not just a prospect; he’s a story, a kid who grew up with Rockies dreams now getting to live them. “I used to watch Dad’s highlights on YouTube,” Ethan said, laughing. “Now I’m here, trying to make my own.”

It’ll take time for Ethan to reach the big leagues, but the Rockies faithful are already buzzing. The Holliday name is back, and it’s hard not to feel a little magic in the air. Here’s to hoping Ethan’s story at Coors Field is just beginning—and that one day, we’ll see him launch homers into the Denver night, just like his dad did.