In a bold and strategic move, the St. Louis Cardinals selected West Virginia middle infielder JJ Wetherholt with the No. 7 pick in the 2024 MLB draft Sunday night. This decision marks a significant moment not just for the Cardinals, but also for Wetherholt, whose journey to this point has been nothing short of remarkable.
Wetherholt's Rise and Challenges
Once considered a prime candidate for the No. 1 overall spot, Wetherholt entered his junior year with towering expectations. He was ranked No. 1 on many preseason lists, and his performance drew considerable attention from scouts and evaluators. However, his draft standing was notably impacted by a challenging junior year marred by a serious hamstring injury sustained during Opening Weekend.
The injury sidelined Wetherholt for nearly two months, effectively reducing his season by half. Despite these setbacks, he displayed resilience and determination, returning to post impressive numbers. Over 36 games, Wetherholt slashed .331/.472/.589, with eight home runs and an impressive ratio of 30 walks to 17 strikeouts. Even with limited at-bats, he showcased his hitting prowess, which evaluators project as a 70-grade hit tool.
Wetherholt’s Draft Journey
Wetherholt's draft journey was a story of highs and lows. His early injury and subsequent recovery tested his resolve and ultimately shaped his path to the MLB. Concerns about his long-term power potential were noted by scouts, who believe his in-game power might peak at an average level. Nevertheless, his overall skill set and potential to solidify infield defense made him a compelling pick for the Cardinals.
This selection is historic for West Virginia University as well. Wetherholt is the first player from the school to be chosen in the first round since Alek Manoah was picked No. 11 by the Toronto Blue Jays in 2019. Furthermore, he is the first first-round position player from West Virginia since Joseph Honce was selected No. 12 by the Minnesota Twins in 1973.
The Cardinals' Strategy
The Cardinals' faith in Wetherholt speaks volumes about their strategy and vision for the future. By choosing a player with proven resilience and a high ceiling, they are betting on Wetherholt’s ability to overcome past injuries and develop into a key player. Second base appears to be Wetherholt's likely landing spot, where his defensive skills can shine and contribute to the team's overall performance.
Wetherholt’s selection signifies the beginning of his professional career, marking the end of his collegiate journey and the start of a new chapter. As he transitions to the professional arena, the Cardinals’ commitment to nurturing his talent will be crucial. This move underscores their belief in his potential to become a standout player and solidify their infield defense in the coming years.
Looking Ahead
For Wetherholt, the path forward is filled with promise. The Cardinals' confidence in selecting him at No. 7 indicates their readiness to invest in his future, despite the challenges he faced in his junior year. His story is a testament to the importance of perseverance, talent, and the willingness to bet on potential, even when immediate results are uncertain.
As JJ Wetherholt dons the Cardinals uniform, the baseball world will be watching closely. His journey from a top high school prospect, through the trials of college athletics, to being a first-round MLB draft pick, is a narrative rich with determination and aspiration. The Cardinals’ strategic decision has set the stage for what could become a remarkable professional career for Wetherholt, and fans will eagerly await his contributions on the field.