In a strategic and somewhat surprising move, the St. Louis Cardinals have made a significant decision in the 2024 MLB draft by selecting West Virginia middle infielder JJ Wetherholt with the No. 7 overall pick. Wetherholt, who had previously been considered a top candidate for the No. 1 overall spot, experienced a tumultuous junior year that had a notable impact on his draft positioning.
Wetherholt entered the season with exceedingly high expectations, ranking No. 1 on many preseason lists and drawing substantial attention from scouts and evaluators alike. These lofty prospects were, however, hindered by a severe hamstring injury sustained during Opening Weekend, which sidelined him for nearly two months. This injury limited him to roughly half a season's worth of at-bats, curtailing his opportunity to showcase his full potential.
Despite these setbacks, Wetherholt's performance in the limited games he played was nothing short of impressive. Over the span of 36 games, he posted a slash line of .331/.472/.589, hitting eight home runs and demonstrating excellent plate discipline with 30 walks and only 17 strikeouts. Evaluators have projected a 70-grade on his hit tool, signalling his high proficiency as a hitter. However, some concerns remain about his power projections, with many suggesting that his in-game power might peak at an average level.
Primarily viewed as a second baseman, Wetherholt is poised to solidify the Cardinals' infield defense. His selection marks a significant milestone not only for his career but also for West Virginia University. Wetherholt becomes the first player from the university to be picked in the first round since the Toronto Blue Jays selected Alek Manoah with the No. 11 pick in 2019. Furthermore, he is West Virginia's first first-round position player since Joseph Honce was chosen No. 12 by the Minnesota Twins in 1973.
Wetherholt's entry into the professional ranks is a testament to the Cardinals' belief in his abilities. The organization’s faith in Wetherholt’s potential speaks volumes about their vision for the future. They see him not only as a promising athlete who can potentially shore up their infield but also as a player whose work ethic and resilience will drive him to overcome the adversities he has faced.
The Cardinals' selection of Wetherholt is more than a gamble on potential; it is a calculated decision based on his demonstrated talent and possible upside. His ability to bounce back from a major injury and still produce at a high level showcases his resilience and determination—qualities that will be invaluable as he transitions to the professional stage.
As Wetherholt begins this new chapter in his career, the St. Louis Cardinals and their fans will be keenly watching his development. While his junior year challenges may have swayed his draft standing, they also highlighted his capacity to handle adversity and emerge stronger. With his proven hitting skills, solid defensive abilities, and the Cardinals' support, Wetherholt is well-positioned to make a significant impact in the MLB.