In a strategic and somewhat surprising decision, the St. Louis Cardinals have selected West Virginia middle infielder JJ Wetherholt with the No. 7 pick in the 2024 MLB draft. Once a frontrunner for the coveted No. 1 overall pick, Wetherholt's draft standing was influenced by a challenging junior year that many thought would see his stock plummet further.
High Expectations and a Setback
Arriving at the beginning of the season with high expectations, Wetherholt had been ranked No. 1 on numerous preseason lists, capturing the keen interest of scouts and evaluators. However, an unfortunate hamstring injury sustained during Opening Weekend threw a wrench in his progress, sidelining him for nearly two months. This injury led to his appearance in only about half of the scheduled games for the season.
Despite the limited playing time, Wetherholt managed to put up impressive numbers. Over 36 games, he slashed .331/.472/.589, hitting eight home runs and recording nearly twice as many walks (30) as strikeouts (17). These statistics highlight his strong plate discipline and ability to get on base, despite concerns about his in-game power peaking at an average level.
Evaluators have placed a high 70-grade on his hit tool, underscoring his potential to become a significant offensive asset. Nonetheless, questions remain about his power projections, which some scouts feel might not develop beyond an average level.
A New Chapter in MLB
It's worth noting that JJ Wetherholt's selection holds historical significance for both him and his university. He becomes the first player from West Virginia University to be picked in the first round since the Toronto Blue Jays selected Alek Manoah with the No. 11 pick in 2019. Furthermore, Wetherholt is West Virginia's first first-round position player since Joseph Honce was chosen No. 12 by the Minnesota Twins back in 1973.
For the St. Louis Cardinals, Wetherholt represents a blend of promise and immediate value. The team sees potential in his ability to solidify their infield defense, with second base being his likely position. His selection marks the beginning of what many hope to be a successful professional career, showcasing the Cardinals' faith in his capabilities despite his challenging junior year.
The Road Ahead
Wetherholt's journey to the MLB has been anything but straightforward. After entering the season as a top prospect, his hamstring injury could have derailed his professional aspirations. Instead, his resilience and performance upon returning to the field solidified his status as a first-round pick.
As Wetherholt embarks on his professional career, the Cardinals' decision to draft him speaks volumes about their confidence in his potential. His journey from a highly-touted prospect to overcoming injury challenges demonstrates a level of determination and skill that can propel him to success in the major leagues.
While the 2024 MLB draft night may have been filled with surprises, the selection of JJ Wetherholt stands out as a calculated decision, reflecting the Cardinals' forward-looking strategy. As he joins the ranks of the St. Louis Cardinals, many will be watching closely to see how this young infielder develops in the years to come.