Eli Willits shows unexpected power surge in Nationals system
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 12, 2026, 2:30 PM
Last updated Jun 12, 2026
Eli Willits, the 18-year-old shortstop for the Washington Nationals, has started the season with impressive power, hitting nine home runs. Willits has launched three long balls in his first three games with High-A Wilmington and boasts a.958 OPS, along with 30 stolen bases so far this season. Previously viewed as lacking power potential, Willits has exceeded expectations in this area, showcasing a significant muscle gain and improved batting skills. The Nationals had recently promoted him to High-A, and his performance suggests he could be on track to become a superstar prospect.
- •Willits has hit nine home runs this season, including five in June.
- •He is hitting.302 with 30 stolen bases and only one error.
- •Willits was the 2025 No. 1 overall Draft pick.
- •His early performance has led to his promotion to High-A Wilmington.
- •Scouts are reevaluating his power potential after recent successes.
- 2:30 PMYahoo Sports — Eli Willits is showing an unexpected power stroke in the Nationals system
"The biggest question mark in Eli Willits’ game was his power but the 18 year old has been crushing home runs lately
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