In a surprising yet strategic move, the St. Louis Cardinals made waves at the 2024 MLB Draft by selecting West Virginia middle infielder JJ Wetherholt with the No. 7 overall pick Sunday night. Once deemed a contender for the top pick, Wetherholt's journey to this point has been anything but straightforward.
Overcoming Adversity
Initially projected as a potential No. 1 overall pick, Wetherholt's draft standing took a hit due to a challenging junior year. The highly-touted infielder grappled with a serious hamstring injury sustained during Opening Weekend, which sidelined him for nearly two months and halved his season appearances. This setback undoubtedly impacted where he ended up in the draft order.
Despite these challenges, Wetherholt managed to maintain an impressive performance upon his return. Over 36 games, he slashed .331/.472/.589, hit eight home runs, and nearly doubled his walks (30) compared to strikeouts (17). Such resilient output solidified his status as a top prospect, though it also fueled ongoing discussions among scouts about his long-term potential, particularly regarding his power projections.
Scouting Analysis
Among evaluators, Wetherholt is highly regarded for his hit tool, which has been given a stellar 70-grade projection. That kind of rating is indicative of a player who could potentially be one of the best hitters in the league. However, concerns remain about his power projections. While his in-game power might reach an average peak, it’s the more rounded aspects of his game that make him a valuable prospect.
Positionally, Wetherholt is expected to find his future at second base, a position where his skillset can flourish and his contributions can be maximized. His defensive capabilities add another layer of appeal for a Cardinals team looking to solidify their infield defense.
Historic Selection
Wetherholt's drafting marks a historic moment for West Virginia University. He is the first player from the institution to be picked in the first round of the MLB Draft since the Toronto Blue Jays selected Alek Manoah with the No. 11 pick in 2019. Furthermore, Wetherholt becomes the first first-round position player from West Virginia since Joseph Honce was chosen No. 12 by the Minnesota Twins in 1973.
This selection not only elevates Wetherholt’s career but also brings renewed attention to West Virginia's baseball program, potentially inspiring future Mountaineers.
A Pro Start with Promise
For the St. Louis Cardinals, selecting Wetherholt at No. 7 speaks volumes about their faith in his potential. The move underscores the team’s dedication to fortifying their infield with players who boast both skill and resilience. His ability to overcome injury adversity and still produce at a high level is a testament to his tenacity and work ethic—traits the Cardinals undoubtedly value.
Wetherholt now embarks on the next chapter of his baseball journey, transitioning from a collegiate star to a professional hopeful. The Cardinals' decision to bring him into their fold could signal a bright future ahead for both the player and the organization. As Wetherholt takes his first steps into the professional arena, all eyes will be on how he leverages his collegiate experience to thrive in the major leagues.
This draft day decision could be one remembered fondly by Cardinals' fans, especially if Wetherholt meets or exceeds the high expectations set before him. With his journey now transitioning from amateur stardom to professional pursuit, baseball enthusiasts will be keenly watching how Wetherholt's story continues to unfold.