Scouting Report

J. J. Wetherholt – Scouting Report
 

J.J. Wetherholt
B/T: L/R
Primary Position: 2B (can play SS)
Projected 2026 Role: Top-half everyday infielder

2025 Production Snapshot
Slotted at No. 5 in the batting order at the end of 2025, Wetherholt finished strong, slashing:

.306 / .421 / .510 (.931 OPS)
28 doubles | 17 HR | 23 SB | 59 RBI

That line tells you almost everything. He’s not a one-dimensional bat. He impacts the game in multiple ways.

 
Hit Tool – Plus
Wetherholt’s calling card is his advanced approach. He controls the strike zone, works deep counts, and doesn’t expand when pitchers try to get him off the plate. The .421 OBP isn’t an accident — it’s discipline and barrel accuracy. He stays balanced, keeps his hands inside the ball, and sprays line drives to all fields.

He’s not guessing. He’s reacting.

 
Power – Emerging Gap-to-Over-the-Fence
Seventeen home runs paired with 28 doubles shows a hitter growing into strength. The swing is built for line drives first, but there’s enough bat speed and lift to project 18–22 homers annually at peak. He’s more “hard contact doubles machine” than pure slugger — and that plays in Busch.

 
Speed & Baserunning – Above Average
Twenty-three stolen bases confirm what the eye test already suggests: he’s an instinctive runner. Quick first step. Good reads. He won’t just steal bags — he’ll take the extra base and pressure defenders.

 
Defense – Steady with Upside
Natural infielder’s actions. Soft hands. Efficient footwork. Arm plays at shortstop if needed, but profiles comfortably at second long term. Reliable more than flashy — which fits the Cardinal Way just fine.

 
Makeup & Projection
The Cardinals are giving him every shot to break camp on Opening Day, and that’s telling. Slotting him at No. 5 — the same spot where he thrived to close 2025 — suggests they trust the bat to handle RBI opportunities.

He doesn’t look overwhelmed. He looks prepared.

Overall Future Value: Everyday infielder with All-Star ceiling if the power continues to tick upward.

Graphic Image - the Cardinal Chronicle