In a surprising yet strategic move, the St. Louis Cardinals made a notable selection in the 2024 MLB draft on Sunday night by choosing West Virginia middle infielder JJ Wetherholt with the No. 7 pick. This decision sends a clear message about the Cardinals' belief in Wetherholt's potential, despite the challenges he faced during his junior year.
From Top Candidate to Overcoming Setbacks
Once projected as a candidate for the No. 1 overall spot, Wetherholt experienced a tumultuous junior year that inevitably impacted his draft standing. High expectations had been set for him early on, with numerous preseason lists ranking him at the pinnacle and drawing significant interest from scouts and evaluators alike.
The promising season took an abrupt turn when Wetherholt sustained a serious hamstring injury during Opening Weekend, sidelining him for nearly two months. This injury severely limited his opportunities, restricting him to approximately half the season's worth of at-bats. Yet, within those 36 games, Wetherholt demonstrated resilience and skill, slashing an impressive .331/.472/.589 with eight home runs.
Rising Above Adversity
Despite the challenges, Wetherholt showed commendable discipline at the plate, registering nearly twice as many walks (30) as strikeouts (17). Evaluators have projected a 70-grade on his hit tool, though concerns about his long-term power projections remain. Analysts suggest his in-game power might peak at an average level, which could influence his overall impact in the major leagues.
His defensive capabilities also play a crucial role in his profile. Second base is seen as Wetherholt's likely landing spot in the field, and he is expected to bring stability to the Cardinals’ infield defense. This belief in his defensive potential was a significant factor in the Cardinals' decision to select him in the first round.
Historical Significance at West Virginia
Wetherholt's selection marks a significant milestone for West Virginia University. He becomes the first player from the institution to be chosen in the first round since the Toronto Blue Jays picked Alek Manoah with the No. 11 pick in 2019. Moreover, he is the first first-round position player from West Virginia since Joseph Honce was selected No. 12 by the Minnesota Twins in 1973.
This historic context underscores Wetherholt’s talent and the weight of expectations that accompany him as he begins his professional career. The Cardinals' faith in his abilities speaks volumes about his potential and their vision for him within their organization.
The Road Ahead
Wetherholt’s journey is only beginning, and the Cardinals see abundant potential in his capacity to contribute at a high level. While there may be concerns regarding his power, his disciplined approach and contact-hitting prowess make him a valuable asset. His ability to solidify the infield defense further enhances his profile and underscores why the Cardinals were willing to invest their No. 7 pick in him.
For Wetherholt, the draft night was a testament to his perseverance and talent. Overcoming a significant injury and proving his mettle within a shortened season speaks volumes about his character and potential. As he transitions into the professional realm, all eyes will be on how he adapts and flourishes at the next level. If his college career is any indication, JJ Wetherholt is poised to make a substantial impact in Major League Baseball. The Cardinals' strategic bet on him may well pay off in spades.
As the 2024 MLB draft comes to a close, one narrative that stands out is the resilience and promise of JJ Wetherholt. Only time will tell how his talents will translate in the professional arena, but if his past performances are any indicator, the future seems bright for this young infielder.