If you're tuning into the 2025 MLB Draft and thinking, “Wait, that name sounds familiar,” you’re not imagining things. This year’s class is overflowing with baseball royalty—sons of former MLB stars, legends, and even Hall of Famers looking to make their own mark on the game.
From the offspring of power hitters and World Series champs to sons of iconic managers and beloved All-Stars, this draft is not just loaded with talent—it’s a full-blown baseball nostalgia trip. If you spent your childhood watching baseball in the ‘90s or early 2000s, buckle up. This list might hit you harder than a 98 mph fastball.
Let’s break down the most exciting bloodlines entering the big leagues this weekend—and yes, you might want to stretch a bit before reading. Some of these names will take you way back.
🔥 Ethan Holliday, SS
Son of Matt Holliday
Remember Matt Holliday? Seven-time All-Star, batting title winner, and a clutch postseason performer? Yeah, his other son is now baseball’s top high school prospect.
Ethan Holliday is the name in this year’s draft, currently projected as the No. 1 overall pick. A lefty-hitting shortstop with serious pop, scouts are already labeling him as a future slugging third baseman. That’s some high praise—and a whole lot of pressure—but the younger Holliday seems more than ready. Of course, it helps when your big brother is Jackson Holliday, the No. 1 pick from 2022.
🔥 Cam Leiter, RHP
Nephew of Al Leiter / Son of Kurt Leiter
Leiter is a baseball name that just won’t quit. And now Cam Leiter is continuing the family legacy from the mound.
The Florida State right-hander has serious heat, topping out at 98 mph, and he's ranked 144th in this year’s draft. If that sounds modest, don’t be fooled—teams are keeping a close eye on his development. Cam’s lineage includes Al Leiter (former All-Star and World Series champ) and cousin Jack Leiter, a top pitching prospect in the Texas Rangers’ system.
This family breeds pitching talent.
⚾ Kaeden Kent, SS
Son of Jeff Kent
The 2000 NL MVP and five-time All-Star Jeff Kent was known for his power at second base and his, shall we say, gritty style of play. Now, his son Kaeden is ready to pick up the baton.
After spending his college years at Texas A&M, Kaeden is set to follow his dad’s path to the pros. He might not have the stache (yet), but he’s got the same competitive fire and infield prowess.
⚾ Max McGwire, 1B
Son of Mark McGwire
Can we take a second to let this one sink in?
Mark McGwire—yes, that McGwire—is now watching his son enter the draft. Max McGwire put up modest numbers last year at St. Louis University (.235 average, seven home runs), but it’s the name that has heads turning. While he may not be matching dad’s 70-homer season anytime soon, the power gene definitely runs in the family.
And no, Max isn’t working with the “extra help” his father had during the steroid era. He’s doing it clean, and the grind is real.
⚾ Brady Counsell, SS
Son of Craig Counsell
Brady Counsell is bringing some Big Ten pride into the MLB Draft. The University of Kansas shortstop (yup, they do produce baseball players too) is trying to become the school's first MLB draftee since 2019.
His father, Craig Counsell, is now managing the Chicago Cubs, but fans still remember his signature wide batting stance and postseason heroics with the Marlins and Diamondbacks. Brady’s aiming to write his own story now, and he’s got solid defensive skills to go with a clutch mentality—just like his dad.
⚾ Manny Ramirez Jr., OF
Son of Manny Ramirez
Alright, this one will make you feel old.
Manny Ramirez was one of the most feared hitters of his era, racking up 555 career home runs, 12 All-Star selections, and two World Series rings. His son, Manny Jr., is now on deck.
While Junior might not have the same flashy swing just yet, he’s got a powerful bat and great instincts in the outfield. Whether or not he embraces the same level of Manny Being Manny remains to be seen—but fans are curious.
⚾ Austin Pierzynski, C
Son of A.J. Pierzynski
If you watched baseball in the 2000s, you know A.J. Pierzynski was that guy—a solid catcher, sure, but also the player everyone loved to hate (or hated to love).
Now, Austin Pierzynski is stepping into the limelight. He's a catcher like his dad and has been developing behind the plate with solid game-calling skills and defensive tools. As for his personality? Too early to say. But the name Pierzynski alone is enough to turn heads in scouting rooms.
⚾ Jake Casey, OF
Son of Sean Casey
Known as “The Mayor” during his MLB days, Sean Casey was a fan favorite and three-time All-Star who made his name with the Reds.
His son, Jake, played college ball just a short drive away at Kent State. While he doesn’t have the same larger-than-life personality as his dad (yet), Jake’s bat and hustle are turning heads. Baseball IQ clearly runs in this family.
⚾ Carsten Sabathia, 1B
Son of CC Sabathia
What a month it’s been—and will be—for the Sabathia household. While CC is preparing for his official induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame, his son Carsten is waiting to hear his name called in the 2025 Draft.
Talk about pressure, right?
The younger Sabathia plays first base and is known for his strong work ethic and plate discipline. He may not be launching mid-90s heaters like his dad did, but he brings his own game to the field. And no doubt, the Hall of Fame weekend is going to hit differently for this family.
So, What’s the Deal with This Draft Class?
There have been plenty of legacy kids drafted over the years (think: Bo Bichette, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and Bobby Witt Jr.), but 2025 feels like something else entirely. This class isn't just a few sons of big leaguers—it's practically a second generation of stars stepping into the spotlight.
Whether it’s genetics, upbringing, or the perks of having a Hall of Famer as your tee-ball coach, these young men have the game in their blood—and they’re ready to prove it.
Key Takeaways:
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Ethan Holliday leads the class as a possible No. 1 pick.
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Multiple All-Star dads are watching their kids step into pro baseball.
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Legacy matters, but these players are looking to carve out their own paths.
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From pitching heat to power hitting, the 2025 class covers all the bases—literally.
So if you're a longtime MLB fan, prepare to see some very familiar names popping up in highlight reels again—just with a “Jr.” or “II” attached. And hey, it’s not just a reminder of baseball’s past—it’s the future, too.
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