JUPITER, Fla. -- JJ Wetherholt: Cardinals' Rising Star
JJ Wetherholt, the Cardinals’ top prospect and ranked fifth overall by MLB Pipeline, has been turning heads this exhibition season. As we inch closer to Opening Day against the Rays on March 26 at Busch Stadium, Wetherholt is making a strong case to be the starting second baseman.
With humility and determination, Wetherholt shared, “I’m not sure if I’ll make the team. It’s in God’s hands. I just need to keep competing, practicing, and playing hard every day.”
His performance has been a highlight of the spring, showcasing patience at the plate. In a thrilling 9-8 victory over the Nationals’ prospects, Wetherholt went 2-for-3, scored twice, walked once, and struck out once. Entering the next game against the Mets, he boasts a Grapefruit League slash line of .214/.405/.429, with eight walks and a tie for the second-most RBIs on the team with six.
Wetherholt is eager to demonstrate the depth of talent within the Cardinals' farm system. “You hear about the top guys, but there are others who can impress with a great play or a solid swing,” he noted. “Fans will notice when we play our game.”
Ranked as having the fourth-best farm system by MLB Pipeline, the Cardinals feature 14 top prospects, including lefty Liam Doyle and outfielder Joshua Báez. Wetherholt dreams of competing in the World Series alongside these talents.
“You want to be part of a high-ranking system with good prospects and coaching. It gives us a chance to build superstars in-house,” Wetherholt explained.
The lineup question remains: will Wetherholt lead off or bat second behind Masyn Winn? With his plate discipline, Wetherholt seems a natural fit for the top spot, while Winn could thrive in a run-producing role.
Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol praised Wetherholt’s approach: “[He has the] ability to stay on the ball, uses the whole field, and takes a professional at-bat. He’s eager to learn, which is a great quality.”
Originally a shortstop, Wetherholt is proving himself at second base with impressive diving plays. Early concerns about backhanded plays have been addressed through diligent pre-game work, including sessions with coaches and former infielder Kolten Wong.
Wetherholt finds comfort on defense with Masyn Winn beside him. Winn’s leadership and defensive prowess, highlighted by 21 outs above average in 2025, provide reassurance.
“He takes pressure off you,” Wetherholt said. “I’m just there to make the routine plays and help him elevate his game.”
Once Wetherholt joins the big leagues, his former college teammate, center fielder Victor Scott II, anticipates he’ll be a key contributor. “He’ll help the Cardinals a lot,” Scott remarked.
“He’s an all-around player who can get on base, hit home runs, play solid defense, and run a bit. Watching him grow will be exciting.”