In a surprising yet strategic move, the St. Louis Cardinals made headlines by selecting West Virginia University's middle infielder JJ Wetherholt with the No. 7 pick in the 2024 MLB Draft Sunday night. Wetherholt, who was once a strong candidate for the coveted No. 1 overall spot, faced a few hurdles that impacted his draft standing, making the Cardinals' choice both bold and calculated.
A Closer Look at Wetherholt's Journey
Wetherholt entered the 2024 season with high expectations, having ranked No. 1 on numerous preseason lists. His impressive skill set drew significant attention from scouts and evaluators, who projected a 70-grade on his hit tool. However, his journey took an unexpected turn during Opening Weekend when he sustained a serious hamstring injury that kept him sidelined for nearly two months. This injury limited him to approximately a half-season's worth of at-bats, significantly affecting his draft prospects.
Despite these setbacks, Wetherholt managed to showcase his remarkable talent over 36 games, slashing .331/.472/.589 with eight home runs. His plate discipline was notable, as he recorded nearly twice as many walks (30) as strikeouts (17). Evaluators noted concerns about his power projections, suggesting that his in-game power might peak at an average level. Yet, his potential as a reliable hitter remained undeniable.
The Impact of the Injury
The hamstring injury that hampered Wetherholt's junior year undoubtedly played a role in his draft standing. Being sidelined for almost half the season was a tough pill to swallow for a player with such high expectations. However, it also offered a glimpse into his resilience and determination to overcome adversity. His ability to maintain impressive statistics despite reduced playing time speaks volumes about his skill and work ethic.
Wetherholt's Role with the Cardinals
Second base is seen as Wetherholt's likely landing spot in the MLB, a position where the Cardinals believe he can solidify their infield defense. His selection marks the beginning of his professional career, and the Cardinals' faith in his abilities is a testament to his potential. The team sees in Wetherholt a player who can grow and evolve, benefiting from the experience and mentorship available at the professional level.
A Historic Selection
JJ Wetherholt's selection is not just a personal achievement but also a historic moment for West Virginia University. He is the first player from the university to be selected in the first round since the Toronto Blue Jays picked Alek Manoah with the No. 11 pick in 2019. Additionally, Wetherholt is WVU’s first first-round position player since Joseph Honce was selected No. 12 by the Minnesota Twins in 1973. This milestone underscores the significance of his talents and the high regard in which he is held.
Looking Forward
As Wetherholt embarks on his professional career with the Cardinals, the baseball world will be watching closely. His journey from a highly-touted prospect to overcoming an injury and being selected as a top-10 pick demonstrates his resilience and determination. The Cardinals’ strategic move to draft Wetherholt underscores their confidence in his ability to rise above challenges and contribute significantly to their roster.
While concerns about his power projection linger, his exceptional hitting skills and defensive capabilities offer a strong foundation. The baseball community knows that potential is not solely judged on pre-existing accolades but also on the ability to adapt, grow, and excel. JJ Wetherholt’s story is a testament to that truth, making him a fascinating player to watch as he transitions to the major leagues.
In conclusion, the St. Louis Cardinals' selection of JJ Wetherholt with the No. 7 pick is a calculated risk that could pay substantial dividends. His journey through adversity, impressive statistics, and historic selection make him a notable player in the 2024 MLB Draft. Both the Cardinals and Wetherholt are poised for an exciting future as they take this next step together.