Colorado Rockies shortstop Ethan Holliday signed a record $9 million bonus Tuesday, surpassing all previous high school draft bonuses according to ESPN reports.
The fourth overall selection broke his brother Jackson\'s previous high school record of $8.19 million set in 2022. Ethan Holliday was ranked as the top high school player and second overall prospect in the draft by ESPN.
The signing makes Holliday the latest member of his baseball family to reach professional ranks. His father Matt Holliday starred for the Rockies during his MLB career, while brother Jackson plays infield for the Baltimore Orioles after being selected first overall three years ago.
Three Oklahoma high school shortstops now hold the top signing bonus records in draft history. Washington Nationals first overall pick Eli Willits previously set the mark at $8.2 million earlier this year before Holliday\'s deal topped it.
Holliday\'s $9 million bonus ties for the fourth-highest signing bonus of all time across all draft classes. The record reflects the Rockies\' commitment to securing the premier high school talent available in the fourth slot.
MLB\'s bonus pool system allows teams flexibility in distributing their allocated funds among draft picks. Teams can offer above-slot bonuses to preferred prospects while saving money on other selections to stay within their total pool limits.
The Holliday signing continues a trend of teams investing heavily in top high school prospects. Premium bonuses for prep players have increased significantly as organizations prioritize long-term development over immediate impact.
Colorado\'s investment in Holliday represents confidence in his potential to develop into a franchise cornerstone. The shortstop position and family pedigree add additional value to the organization\'s long-term planning.