JJ Wetherholt, the standout former West Virginia University All-American and the 2023 Big 12 Player of the Year, is on the verge of realizing his dream of playing in Major League Baseball. Selected seventh overall by the St. Louis Cardinals in the 2024 MLB Draft, Wetherholt’s impressive performance in the minors has positioned him well to earn a spot in the Cardinals’ lineup for the upcoming season. With Spring Training starting on February 14, Wetherholt’s prospects for an MLB debut on March 26 against Tampa Bay look promising.
Climbing the Ranks: Minor League Successes
After being drafted, Wetherholt quickly made his mark with the Palm Beach Cardinals, batting .295 in 29 games in 2024. His first full professional season saw him begin at Double-A Springfield before being promoted to Triple-A Memphis. Across those levels, he accumulated over 400 at-bats, maintaining a .306 average alongside 17 home runs, 59 RBIs, and 23 stolen bases. His stellar performances earned him both the Texas League Most Valuable Player award and the International League’s Top MLB Prospect Award. Wetherholt’s rise has also caught national attention, with MLB.com ranking him as the No. 5 overall prospect in baseball.
Spring Training Outlook and Team Changes
The Cardinals’ roster shifts, including trades involving key infielders, have opened opportunities for Wetherholt to contend for a starting role. If he impresses during Spring Training, there is strong belief he could open the regular season as a starter. Despite nearing this milestone, Wetherholt maintains a disciplined, process-focused mindset rather than visualizing the outcome prematurely. The Mars, Pennsylvania native emphasizes preparation over anticipation as the key to sustained success and readiness for whatever role the team requires.
Wetherholt’s Mindset and Approach to Versatility
Wetherholt’s adaptability remains a significant asset as he prepares for the major leagues. He has committed to training across multiple positions, showing flexibility in defense to respond to team needs. Reflecting on this approach, he stated,
“If they want to nudge me in a certain direction, it’s up to them to do so. It’s not a problem for me. I just work everywhere, and until they tell me to do something else, that won’t change.”
This openness to playing various positions marks a new phase in his development, requiring constant adjustment and learning.
Consistent Batting Performance Through the Ranks
While Wetherholt’s defensive skills have quietly improved, his bat has been the centerpiece of his career so far. After an exceptional .449 average with 60 RBIs as a sophomore at WVU, Wetherholt’s hitting consistency has carried through his professional career. At Triple-A Memphis, he hit .314 with 24 extra-base hits over 185 at-bats, showcasing his ability to perform against top-tier competition. He attributes his steadiness to facing strong opponents early on, noting,
“I think part of it was how good the competition was in college. It’s the best of the best in the Big 12. Seeing that all the time prepares you. For me, it’s just about my approach and staying true to it.”
He also credits the Cardinals organization for trusting his approach, explaining,
“The organization definitely trusts the plan I come up with. It’s been pretty consistent with what I did in college – try to be on time for a fastball and adjust to the other stuff. At the professional level, you just have to be better and more disciplined with your approach.”
Navigating Advice and Maintaining Focus Amid Support
MLB players often face a flood of information from coaches and analysts, and Wetherholt actively manages what guidance he absorbs. He remarked,
“There are a lot of people out there trying to help, but they can overfill your brain with stuff you don’t need to be focusing on. You’ve got to make sure you know the things you want to look at and stay consistent.”
This selective focus helps him stay grounded physically and mentally during the long baseball season.
Off-Field Habits and Unique Training Methods
Maintaining stamina and health is crucial over the grueling season, and Wetherholt invests long hours at the ballpark while prioritizing proper rest and nutrition. Outside traditional workouts, he incorporates unconventional training routines, sharing,
“I do virtual reality boxing non-stop. That’s how I get my cardio in. Your boy is not a big fan of running, so I go out to the garage and get my work in that way.”
This innovative method helps him stay conditioned while breaking from typical endurance exercises.
Experience Against Elite Pitchers and Building Confidence
Wetherholt has already faced some of baseball’s premier pitchers, including going 2-for-2 against Braves ace Chris Sale during a rehab assignment and competing against future Hall of Famer Max Scherzer in Spring Training. While he admits initial nerves, those experiences have prepared him for the pressures of the major leagues. “I just go compete,” he said, adding,
“I have to go out and earn it.”
This determined attitude fuels his readiness as the big-league debut draws near.
Potential Partnership with Former Teammate in St. Louis
Should Wetherholt make the final roster, he may find familiar company in center fielder Victor Scott, a fellow former Mountaineer. Scott, who played 138 games for the Cardinals last season, has offered mentorship and support. Wetherholt reflected on Scott’s influence, saying,
“He’s always been in that leadership role for me. That’s the guy I’m going to look to see what he’s doing and what I can follow.”
Their connection extends beyond the field, as both share nostalgia and pride for their time at WVU.
Strong Ties to West Virginia University and Aspiration for Future Success
Though now pursuing professional careers, both players remain engaged with WVU’s baseball program. Wetherholt shared his hopes for the Mountaineers, stating,
“I try to stay in tune as much as possible. I’m really hoping we can take the next step and get to Omaha (for the College World Series). It would be huge for the state and the school, and I’m really excited about what they’re doing there.”
His dedication to the program reflects a commitment to fostering its growth even as he advances his own journey.
The Road Ahead: What to Expect from Wetherholt This Season
As Spring Training unfolds, Wetherholt’s focus will be on securing a roster spot by demonstrating his versatility and consistent hitting. The Cardinals’ organization views him as a vital part of their future, backed by awards and top prospect rankings. With his work ethic and grounded mindset, Wetherholt stands ready to make an immediate impact on the major league stage. His anticipated MLB debut carries significance both for the Cardinals’ lineup and for the broader baseball community watching a rising talent take the field.
