Former Nationals star gives take on team's No. 1 pick

Zimmerman, a two-time All-Star who spent all 16 years of his career in Washington, said of Willits, "I like the pick." 

Zimmerman describes his fellow USA-Baseball alum as "a solid defensive shortstop right now at age 17," continuing on to assert that "the floor is very high."

Top-pick profile

Age aside, Willits fits the mold of a top pick. He already plays beyond his years at a premium position. A switch-hitter, he was named All-State Player of the Year by The Oklahoman after posting a sensational .516 average to along with nine home runs and 48 stolen bases.

Speed is obviously a huge aspect of Willits' game, as was his father's. The elder Willits hit .293 with a .391 OBP and 27 steals en route to finishing fifth in AL Rookie of the Year voting in 2007. The Nationals certainly hope the future holds similar outputs, and then some, from the younger Willits. 

The last time the Nationals had the No. 1 pick in the draft, they took a 17-year-old too. That was in 2010, and the prospect's name was Bryce Harper. 

It worked out then. The organization is hoping history repeats itself.