In a move that has sent ripples through the baseball community, the St. Louis Cardinals made a strategic decision to select West Virginia middle infielder JJ Wetherholt with the No. 7 pick in the 2024 MLB draft on Sunday night. This selection represents not just a gamble on potential but a calculated risk given Wetherholt’s recent past.
Wetherholt has long been touted as a top-tier talent, at one point even being in contention for the No. 1 overall spot. His performances earlier in his college career elevated him to No. 1 on many preseason draft lists, drawing intense scrutiny from scouts and evaluators alike. However, an unfortunate turn of events during his junior year influenced his standing considerably.
An Untimely Injury:
During Opening Weekend of his junior season, Wetherholt sustained a serious hamstring injury. This injury proved to be a significant setback, effectively sidelining him for nearly two months and limiting his playing time considerably. With only about half a season’s worth of at-bats, his draft stock unsurprisingly took a hit. Despite the limited exposure, Wetherholt managed to make a mark with his performance on the field. He slashed an impressive .331/.472/.589, with eight home runs and an impressive almost 2:1 walk-to-strikeout ratio (30 walks to 17 strikeouts) across 36 games.
Scouting Overview:
What Wetherholt brings to the table is undeniable. Evaluators have projected a 70-grade on his hit tool, a testament to his exceptional batting ability. However, there are concerns about his long-term power potential. While he has shown flashes of in-game power, industry experts believe that it might only peak at an average level. Despite this, his overall skillset has garnered enough attention to make him a first-round pick.
On the defensive side, Wetherholt is projected to find his home at second base, where he is expected to solidify the infield defense for the Cardinals. This consideration was likely a significant factor in the Cardinals' decision to draft him, as they seek to shore up their infield for future seasons.
Historic Selection:
Wetherholt's draft position holds historical significance as well. He is the first player from West Virginia University to be selected in the first round since the Toronto Blue Jays picked Alek Manoah at No. 11 in 2019. Moreover, 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 marks the beginning of Wetherholt’s professional career but also stands as a proud moment for West Virginia University.
The Cardinals’ Vision:
The Cardinals' decision to pick Wetherholt speaks volumes about their faith in his abilities and potential. Despite his injury-plagued junior year, the organization sees a player who can not only adapt but excel at the professional level. They believe Wetherholt possesses the attributes necessary to enhance their infield and contribute significantly to their long-term success.
This is not just a story of a player overcoming adversity but a testament to the Cardinals' strategic thinking and their commitment to harnessing top talent. Whether Wetherholt manages to live up to the high expectations will be a narrative eagerly followed by fans and analysts alike.
The journey from a challenging junior year to being a first-round pick is a commendable one. As JJ Wetherholt steps into the professional realm, all eyes will be on how this promising infielder will translate his college success into a thriving MLB career. For now, the St. Louis Cardinals have made a calculated bet on a player with both a high ceiling and an inspiring story of resilience.