When the 2025 MLB Draft commenced on Sunday in Atlanta, GA, the Colorado Rockies sat in a peculiar place. Having dropped to the fourth overall pick in the lottery and the fact that they can’t pick higher than 10th next year despite being the worst team in baseball this season, the first three rounds had to be a success for them. With so much talent on the board, it would be easy to find a quality player to add to the system, but Day 1 proved to be quite a win for the crew at 20th and Blake.

Round 1, No. 4: Ethan Holliday, SS/3B, Stillwater High School

The Rockies selected the 6′4″, 210‑lb high school shortstop and son of former Rockies star Matt Holliday with the fourth pick. MLB Pipeline had him rated as the No. 1 overall prospect, and the organization lauded his raw, four‑field power and plus makeup. His big frame and smooth left-handed swing should certainly excite both the organization and the fans. He has already mentioned an eagerness to start playing minor league games and start his development. While he is profiled as a shortstop initially, he will likely grow out of the position and find a more permanent home at third base. Drafting Holliday reunites him with franchise roots while tapping long-term power potential.

Round 2, No. 45: JB Middleton, RHP, Southern Mississippi

In the second round, the Rockies grabbed John “JB” Middleton, a 21‑year‑old junior right‑hander and first‑team All‑American. Middleton posted a 2.31 ERA with 122 strikeouts over 105⅓ innings in 2025, featuring a mid‑90s fastball (topping 97 mph), plus slider, changeup, and a career-low 0.85 WHIP. Rockies’ scouting praised both his “elite metrics” and competitiveness, comparing his repertoire to Tim Hudson. Middleton adds a polished starter to a system known to struggle with developing arms at altitude.

Competitive Balance-B, No. 74: Max Belyeu, OF, Texas

With picks awarded via Competitive Balance, the Rockies added Texas junior outfielder Max Belyeu. The Rockies have a long history of picking up former Longhorns and Belyeu continues that trend. Interestingly enough, the Rockies talked to former superstar and current Texas coach Troy Tulowitzki about Belyeu before drafting him. Belyeu is a power lefty who slashed .329 with 18 homers in 2024 (Big 12 Player of the Year), then overcame a thumb injury in 2025 to still hit .303/.986 OPS with nine homers. Belyeu brings proven pop in the outfield, addressing the Rockies’ need for offensive upside.

Round 3, No. 77: Ethan Hedges, 3B, USC 

The Rockies closed out Day 1 by selecting a third baseman, Ethan Hedges at 77th—praised for his defense and athleticism. He may be lacking in the power department, but he features an elite hit tool and an excellent defense prowess at the hot corner, a combo that would bode well for the Rockies organization. Hedges adds depth and athleticism at the hot corner and could certainly still find some power, much like Kyle Karros has found in the farm system with the club.

Grade: A-
Day 1 brought Colorado a high-ceiling mix: a pedigree-laden prep bat, advanced college pitching, a high-upside slugger, and defensive depth. Together, these four picks signal a balanced approach aimed at rebuilding the farm and future lineup.

Of course, the club has always been good at finding talent, but the real test will be whether or not they can develop these players into key pieces that will help turn things around.