Ethan Holliday Secures Record $9 Million Bonus from Rockies

The Colorado Rockies made headlines by awarding high school baseball standout Ethan Holliday a staggering $9 million bonus after selecting him in the recent MLB Draft.

On July 22, the 18-year-old Holliday officially signed with the Rockies, marking the largest bonus ever given to a high school player in draft history. This amount also ranks as the fourth-highest bonus in MLB history.

Chosen as the fourth overall pick in the July 14 draft, Holliday is not just any player; he is the son of former Rockies star Matt Holliday and the younger brother of Jackson Holliday, who was the first overall pick in the 2025 MLB Draft.

Currently a senior at Stillwater High School in Oklahoma, Ethan expressed his excitement about joining the Rockies, stating in an ESPN interview, “I’m super juiced to join my dad’s former organization.”

“It’s an incredible feeling,” he added. “This opportunity is unbelievable. I’m so grateful. The Rockies organization is really incredible.”

Reflecting on his journey, Ethan acknowledged the challenges he has faced. “I wouldn’t sit here and say it’s all been easy,” he remarked during an MLB Network interview at the Draft. “But also, I’m so blessed to be able to play baseball.”

He emphasized gratitude for his support system, saying, “If the hardest thing in my life is expectations and pressure, then I’m going to wake up super grateful every single day.”

Ethan credits his father and brother for their guidance as he prepares for his professional career. “Jackson always says to enjoy the process and enjoy the people around you,” he shared with Men’s Health last month. “Baseball comes with a high failure rate—you’ve got to expect adversity but keep going.”

His father’s advice resonates as well: “Keep your circle tight and your mindset steady,” Ethan recalled.

Earlier this year, Ethan made waves by signing a historic NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deal with Adidas. While specific financial details remain undisclosed, he quickly put some of his earnings to use.