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Wetherholt’s Meteoric Rise Continues with Futures Game Selection
Jonathan Dyer-Imagn Images

The ascent of JJ Wetherholt, the St. Louis Cardinals ‘ prized infield prospect, continues its rapid trajectory. He has been selected for the prestigious MLB All-Star Futures Game. This honor is a testament to Wetherholt’s exceptional talent and stellar performance. Marking him as one of the brightest young stars in professional baseball.

Wetherholt Wastes No Time

The former West Virginia Mountaineer standout will represent the National League roster in Atlanta on July 12th. A fitting stage for a player whose professional career has been nothing short of electric.

Since being drafted seventh overall by the Cardinals in the 2024 MLB Draft, Wetherholt has wasted no time in making his presence felt. He’s currently ranked as the No. 16 prospect on MLB.com. A remarkable jump in a short period. His collegiate career, particularly his sophomore season at West Virginia where he led the nation with a .449 batting average, set the stage for what many believed would be a fast track to the majors. Despite a junior season hampered by injuries, Wetherholt still managed to hit .331 with 8 home runs. This performance showcased his resilience and offensive prowess.

Wetherholt Proves Worth at Double-A Springfield

Now, with the Double-A Springfield Cardinals, Wetherholt is proving his mettle against advanced competition. He’s currently batting an impressive .305 with five home runs and 27 RBIs. Additionally, he has showcased his speed with 13 stolen bases while only being caught twice. His disciplined approach at the plate is evident in his 41 walks compared to just 35 strikeouts. Demonstrating a maturity beyond his years. These numbers highlight his elite hitting ability and well-rounded offensive game.

The Futures Game, held annually during MLB All-Star Weekend, serves as a showcase for the game’s top minor league talent. Being named to this roster is a significant milestone for any prospect. It signals to the baseball world that they are on the cusp of big league success. For Wetherholt, it’s an opportunity to compete alongside and against the future stars of MLB. This further validates the hype surrounding his potential.

The Journey Is Just Beginning

His journey from a collegiate sensation to a top-tier professional prospect has been swift, fueled by an innate feel for hitting and a relentless work ethic. While the projection currently places his MLB debut in 2026, his current trajectory suggests it could very well be sooner. The All-Star Futures Game will provide another valuable platform for Wetherholt to continue turning heads and solidify his standing as a cornerstone of the St. Louis Cardinals’ future.

This article first appeared on The Forkball and was syndicated with permission.

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