In a move that has raised eyebrows and sparked conversations among baseball enthusiasts, the St. Louis Cardinals made a strategic selection by choosing West Virginia middle infielder JJ Wetherholt with the No. 7 pick in the 2024 MLB draft on Sunday night.
Once considered a contender for the No. 1 overall spot, Wetherholt's trajectory took an unexpected turn due to a challenging junior year. Initially holding high expectations and ranking No. 1 on many preseason lists, his season was hampered by a serious hamstring injury sustained during the Opening Weekend. The injury sidelined him for nearly two months and limited him to around a half-season's worth of at-bats.
Despite these setbacks, Wetherholt managed to post an impressive .331/.472/.589 slash line, with eight home runs and a remarkable strikeout-to-walk ratio (17 strikeouts to 30 walks) over 36 games. These numbers highlight his resilience and ability to bounce back, characteristics that likely appealed to the Cardinals' scouting team. Evaluators have projected a 70-grade on his hit tool, underscoring his potential at the plate. However, concerns about his power projections linger, with some suggesting his in-game power might peak at an average level.
Second Base Potential
Position-wise, second base is seen as Wetherholt's likely landing spot in the professional arena. His defensive prowess and ability to solidify the Cardinals' infield are aspects that the team’s management seems keen on leveraging. Wetherholt's selection is significant not only for his promising career but also for his alma mater. He is the first player from West Virginia University to be selected in the first round since the Toronto Blue Jays chose Alek Manoah with the No. 11 pick in 2019. Moreover, he is West Virginia's first first-round position player since Joseph Honce was picked No. 12 by the Minnesota Twins in 1973.
Overcoming Adversity
Wetherholt's journey to the MLB draft has been anything but smooth. The hamstring injury, which essentially cut his junior year in half, was a significant hurdle. Such injuries can often derail a promising career, but Wetherholt’s performance post-injury demonstrated his resilience and dedication to the sport. His ability to maintain a high level of play, evidenced by his impressive statistics, speaks volumes about his tenacity and work ethic.
The Cardinals' decision to draft Wetherholt at No. 7, despite his injury-riddled junior year, reflects their faith in his potential. His ability to adapt and perform under pressure bodes well for his future in professional baseball. The Cardinals' belief in Wetherholt's abilities and potential impact on their infield defense suggests that they see him as a key player in their long-term strategy.
Professional Beginnings
Wetherholt’s selection by the Cardinals marks the beginning of his professional career, a significant milestone for any athlete. The transition from college baseball to the professional level comes with a set of challenges, but Wetherholt's track record indicates that he is more than capable of handling the pressures and expectations that come with being a top draft pick. His high batting average and disciplined approach at the plate will be key assets as he navigates the early stages of his career.
Looking Ahead
Moving forward, Wetherholt will need to continue showcasing the skillset that made him a top prospect. With the Cardinals’ development system and coaching staff, he has the opportunity to refine his game further and address any concerns about his power projections. If he can stay healthy and continue to develop, he has a bright future ahead in Major League Baseball.
In conclusion, the St. Louis Cardinals' selection of JJ Wetherholt as the No. 7 pick in the 2024 MLB draft is a testament to his potential and the organization's belief in his abilities. Despite a challenging junior year, Wetherholt has shown he has the skills and resilience to succeed at the highest level. As he embarks on his professional journey, all eyes will be on him to see if he can fulfill the promise that led the Cardinals to make this bold and strategic pick.