MEMPHIS, Tenn. – After an impressive showing at Double-A Springfield, JJ Wetherholt, the St. Louis Cardinals’ brightest prospect, has been promoted to Triple-A Memphis Redbirds. The move is seen as a bold move – signaling that the Cardinals are preparing to “open the door” for Wetherholt to make an early appearance in the major leagues.
“Phenomenon” of the training system
It took Wetherholt, 22, just over 2 months to prove that he is far beyond the Double-A level:
.300 batting average,
7 home runs,
14 stolen bases,
.891 OPS – tops in the Texas League.
His on-base percentage is among the best in the Cardinals’ system, demonstrating his ability to reach base and his dynamic speed – weapons the Cardinals have been lacking in MLB.
The near future: Busch Stadium?
According to many experts, pushing Wetherholt to Triple-A is a “green wave” for the plan to call him up to MLB in the second half of the season, especially when the Cardinals’ infield is still constantly rotating due to injuries and lack of consistency.
“He is a complete player: discipline, speed, power and great character. Memphis is just the final stepping stone,” said an anonymous scout.
Shining at the Futures Game
Wetherholt was also selected to attend the MLB All-Star Futures Game at Truist Park on July 12 – a gathering of top talents about to enter MLB. With his debut at Triple-A and the Futures Game stage, all signs are pointing to: JJ Wetherholt is ready to write his name in Busch Stadium.
“The successor” is coming
From Palm Beach to Springfield, now to Memphis. If he continues to maintain his form, Wetherholt could be the “secret weapon” to help the Cardinals break out in the late stages of the season. While fans are still waiting for a young star with enough potential to change the game, the answer may be knocking on Busch Stadium’s door… with the gloves of JJ Wetherholt.