The Anticipation of the 2025 MLB Draft: Southern California’s Unmatched Talents
As the 2025 MLB Draft approaches, all eyes are on Atlanta for what could be a groundbreaking event in Major League Baseball history. Among the key narratives, a small high school in Corona, California, is capturing significant attention. This year, Corona High School has the potential to become the first high school in MLB draft history to produce three first-round picks. The standout players, Seth Hernandez, Billy Carlson, and Brady Ebel, are not just names on a list; they embody the future of baseball.
Seth Hernandez: Future Cy Young Contender
At the center of this historic moment is Seth Hernandez, a right-handed pitcher whose accolades and performance have made him a household name in scouting circles. The 19-year-old Vanderbilt commit has captured the interest of MLB scouts with his remarkable stats. In his senior season, Hernandez achieved an impressive record of 9-1, with a staggering 0.39 ERA, 105 strikeouts, and only seven walks over 53⅓ innings. His remarkable journey culminated in earning the National High School Invitational MVP after leading the Panthers to victory with a complete-game shutout.
What sets Hernandez apart isn’t just his stats; it’s his relentless pursuit of improvement. According to his coach, Andy Wise, Hernandez exemplifies the characteristics of a future star. “He’s always striving to get better, even though he’s number one on everyone’s list,” Wise explains. This commitment to improvement, alongside his consistent performance, positions him as a likely top-three pick in the upcoming draft. With a potential Cy Young Award trajectory ahead, Hernandez could redefine expectations for high school pitchers.
Billy Carlson: The Rising Shortstop
Teammate Billy Carlson is not far behind and is projected to be a top-10 pick. The 19-year-old shortstop and Tennessee commit has transformed into a formidable player at the plate. Posting a senior year batting average of .365, Carlson recorded a .517 on-base percentage, six home runs, and a .647 slugging percentage, showcasing his power and plate discipline. His evolution from a freshman to a draft prospect with elite potential has been remarkable, largely due to his hard work and determination.
Carlson’s journey contrasts with that of Hernandez; he was not anointed a phenom but instead developed through diligence and grit. His coach highlights his disciplined approach to the game, calling attention to Carlson’s impressive infield skills and above-average speed, making him a coveted asset for scouts and teams alike.
Brady Ebel: The Offense’s New Spark
Making up the trio, 17-year-old Brady Ebel may not be a guaranteed first-rounder, but there’s considerable buzz surrounding him as well. Projected to be selected in the early rounds, Ebel has developed a reputation as an offensive dynamo. The son of Dodgers’ third base coach Dino Ebel, Brady brings with him a strong baseball pedigree. During his senior season, he posted a .341 batting average and a .504 on-base percentage, alongside 31 hits, 27 runs, and 17 RBIs, illustrating his capability to contribute significantly at the plate.
While Ebel faced challenges adjusting to high school pitching, limiting him to just two home runs, his potential shines bright for higher levels of competition. Coaches and scouts believe better, more consistent strike zones at the professional level will unlock Ebel’s full power potential, signaling a promising future ahead.
A Cohesive Unit Under Pressure
The spotlight on these players signifies not just individual talent but a collective effort that has marked their time at Corona High. Under immense pressure, the trio—and their teammates—thrived, managing heightened expectations as favorites in their games. “They love to play against the best,” Wise states. This eagerness to face top competition fosters a winning mindset, vital for player development as they transition from high school to professional baseball.
As they prepare for the draft, Hernandez, Carlson, and Ebel represent the pinnacle of youth baseball talent not just in Southern California but across the nation. Each player’s unique journey paints a larger picture of what determination and talent can achieve, proving that hard work often outpaces talent alone.
Southern California’s Broader Impact
However, the Corona trio is not the only group from Southern California that has caught the attention of MLB scouts this year. A slew of prospects from the region, including players from Great Oak High, Oaks Christian High, and Lakewood High, are also projected for selection in the early rounds. Notable names include Gavin Fien, Quentin Young, and Anthony Eyanson, each with impressive stats and skill sets that contribute to Southern California’s reputation as a breeding ground for baseball talent.
As the draft nears, the legacy of California baseball continues to expand, with prospects not only emerging from high schools but also establishing themselves in prestigious college programs. This growing trend ensures that Southern California remains a hotbed for elite talent in the MLB draft.
Conclusion: The Future Awaits
The anticipation for the 2025 MLB Draft is palpable, particularly for Southern California’s Corona High School and its trio of standout players. Seth Hernandez, Billy Carlson, and Brady Ebel have positioned themselves not just for individual glory but also as symbols of the tremendous potential within high school baseball. As MLB scouts prepare their lists, these athletes stand poised to take a significant leap into professional sports, each carrying the hopes of their community and the legacy of their storied paths.
With the draft set to take place this Sunday in Atlanta, baseball fans and scouts alike eagerly await how this pivotal moment in their careers will unfold. Whether they achieve first-round status or not, one truth remains—these young athletes have indeed transformed the MLB draft narrative, signaling a bright future ahead for baseball in Southern California and beyond.
