In a strategy-driven maneuver, the St. Louis Cardinals have made headlines by selecting West Virginia middle infielder JJ Wetherholt with the seventh overall pick in the 2024 MLB draft. This decision comes on the heels of a tumultuous year for Wetherholt, whose potential had once seen him in contention for the No. 1 spot.
Despite a challenging junior season marred by a significant hamstring injury, Wetherholt's raw talent and prolific performance prior to his injury kept him on the radar for numerous teams. The injury, which occurred during Opening Weekend, sidelined him for nearly two months and effectively halved his season. Limited to approximately 36 games, Wetherholt managed to showcase his resilience and skill, slashing an impressive .331/.472/.589, with eight home runs. Additionally, he demonstrated keen plate discipline, walking nearly twice as often (30 times) as he struck out (17 times).
Scouts have projected a 70-grade hit tool for Wetherholt, underscoring his hitting prowess. However, concerns around his power projections persist. While his in-game power might peak at an average level, his overall skill set garners significant attention. Evaluators have suggested that second base will likely be Wetherholt's primary position, where his defensive capabilities can be fully utilized.
Wetherholt’s selection by the Cardinals underscores their confidence in his potential to bolster their infield defense. This historic pick is particularly notable as Wetherholt becomes the first player from West Virginia University to be selected in the first round since the Toronto Blue Jays drafted Alek Manoah at No. 11 in 2019. Moreover, Wetherholt is West Virginia's first first-round position player since Joseph Honce was taken No. 12 by the Minnesota Twins in 1973.
His draft plight serves as a testament to his enduring skill and potential, despite the adversity faced during his junior year. Entering the professional ranks, Wetherholt has a unique opportunity to silence any lingering doubts about his abilities and fulfill the high expectations placed upon him right from his collegiate career.
The Cardinals see Wetherholt’s selection as a critical addition to their roster, potentially solidifying their defensive setup and adding a versatile player capable of making an immediate impact. As Wetherholt embarks on this next chapter, all eyes will be on his journey through the minor leagues and his eventual rise to the majors, where he will look to fulfill the promise that saw him being considered among the top talents of his draft class.
Wetherholt’s professional career is now underway, his selection marking a significant milestone not only for him but also for West Virginia University's baseball program. The Cardinals' investment in him speaks volumes about their belief in his talents and their vision for the future.
The road ahead will undoubtedly be watched keenly both by fans of the Cardinals and those who have followed Wetherholt’s progression over the years. His journey from a top prospect to a college star, and now an MLB first-round pick, exemplifies the unpredictable yet rewarding path of a professional athlete. With his skill set and determination, Wetherholt could indeed become a staple in the major leagues for years to come.