Ethan Holliday was selected as the No. 4 overall pick in the 2025 MLB draft by the Colorado Rockies on Sunday, continuing the Holliday family’s strong presence in professional baseball. The talented shortstop and third baseman, highly regarded entering the draft, is set to begin his journey with the Rockies, the same franchise where his father, Matt Holliday, made a significant impact during his career.
Following the announcement, Ethan’s brother Jackson Holliday and his wife Chloe shared celebratory posts on social media. Chloe reposted an animated graphic from the Rockies featuring Ethan, and displayed a photo of Jackson sitting beside her as they held a FaceTime call with Ethan aboard a private jet.
“Heading to you E!” Chloe wrote.
She also shared an image of a younger Ethan fully equipped in Rockies gear, holding a distinctive blue bat, highlighting the emotional significance of the moment for the family.
Jackson Holliday, already an established MLB player, was the first overall pick in the 2022 MLB draft and is now in his second year with the Baltimore Orioles. Ethan’s selection follows the top three picks: Eli Willits by the Washington Nationals, Tyler Bremner picked by the Los Angeles Angels, and Kade Anderson chosen by the Seattle Mariners.
Ethan Reflects on Legacy and Opportunity with the Colorado Rockies
Matt Holliday, Ethan’s father, played for the Colorado Rockies across several seasons from 2004 to 2008 and again in 2018, earning three All-Star selections during his time with the team. He also holds accolades as a World Series champion and NLCS MVP, setting a high bar for his sons to follow.
Shortly after being drafted, Ethan appeared on MLB Network, where he expressed his gratitude and excitement to join the Rockies organization, appreciating the family connection and long-standing relationship with the franchise.
“This is a really incredible opportunity,” Holiday said. “… I’m just so thankful, and obviously, with the family and the background and my dad being drafted by them, that just adds such a cool element. I’ve known everybody in the organization since I was born, so I’m super thankful.”
Although Ethan will start his professional career in the Rockies’ minor league system, likely developing through AAA before debuting in the majors, the enthusiasm surrounding his potential remains high. The Rockies and the Holliday family anticipate another promising chapter in their shared baseball story.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Will Jackson Holliday be called up?
A. The Baltimore Orioles are starting the Jackson Holliday era. On Wednesday, they promoted the 20-year-old infielder from Triple-A Norfolk. Holliday is the top prospect according to MLB Pipeline. To make space for him, they designated infielder/outfielder Tony Kemp for assignment.
Q. Is Jackson Holliday being called up?
A. Mateo shared playing time with Jordan Westburg, who also shares third base responsibilities with Ramon Urias. Holliday, chosen first in the 2022 draft, quickly advanced in the minor leagues. He was called up on April 10 to become part of the Orioles’ talented young group.
Q. Why is Jackson Holliday #7?
A. Years before Holliday was born, that number was connected to Cal Ripken Sr., a long-time coach for the Orioles. No player in Baltimore had worn it since his son Billy did in 1988. Although the number wasn’t officially retired, the Orioles chose not to assign it to anyone else.