In a noteworthy turn of events during the 2024 MLB draft, the St. Louis Cardinals made a strategic selection by picking West Virginia middle infielder JJ Wetherholt with the No. 7 overall pick. Wetherholt, who once had the potential to be the No. 1 overall pick, saw his standing fluctuate due to a challenging junior year marred by injury.
High Expectations and Early Setbacks
Entering the season, Wetherholt was a top contender, holding the No. 1 ranking on many preseason lists and drawing considerable interest from scouts and evaluators. However, his trajectory was disrupted by a significant hamstring injury sustained during Opening Weekend. This injury sidelined him for nearly two months, significantly limiting his playing time and, consequently, his exposure to scouts. He missed almost half of his junior year, recording only a half-season's worth of at-bats across 36 games.
Despite these setbacks, Wetherholt demonstrated his resilience and exceptional skill. Over those 36 games, he managed an impressive slash line of .331/.472/.589, with eight home runs. His plate discipline was noteworthy, as he drew nearly twice as many walks (30) as strikeouts (17). Evaluators project a 70-grade on his hit tool, a testament to his precision and proficiency at the plate.
Power Concerns and Defensive Potential
While Wetherholt’s hitting ability is highly regarded, there are some concerns regarding his power projections. Scouts have noted that his in-game power might peak at an average level, a factor that could influence his role and impact in the major leagues. Despite this, his defensive prowess cannot be understated. It is widely believed that second base will be Wetherholt’s most likely position, where his defensive skills can significantly bolster the Cardinals' infield.
A Historic Pick for West Virginia
Wetherholt's selection is historic for West Virginia University (WVU). He becomes the first player from WVU to be picked in the first round since the Toronto Blue Jays selected Alek Manoah with the No. 11 pick in 2019. Furthermore, Wetherholt is WVU's first first-round position player since Joseph Honce was chosen No. 12 by the Minnesota Twins in 1973. This milestone underscores the significance of his achievement and puts the spotlight on WVU’s baseball program.
The Cardinals' Investment in Potential
The Cardinals' decision to draft Wetherholt at No. 7 reflects their confidence in his abilities and potential. Despite the interruption in his junior year, the organization sees in Wetherholt a player who can solidify their infield defense and grow into a key player. His selection marks the beginning of his professional journey, and the Cardinals' faith in his talent speaks volumes about the qualities they believe he will bring to their roster.
Looking Forward
As Wetherholt embarks on this new chapter, the baseball community will undoubtedly keep a close watch on his development. His resilience in the face of adversity, coupled with his evident talent, paints the picture of a promising career ahead. With the Cardinals' backing, Wetherholt has the chance to make a significant impact in the majors, showcasing the skills and spirit that have brought him to this pivotal moment.