By: Jonathan K. Martin | WV Sports Chat
MLB Pipeline has released their top ten prospects heading into the 2026 season.
Coming in at No. 5 is shortstop JJ Wetherholt.
The 23-year-old left-handed hitter, drafted seventh overall by the Cardinals in 2024 out of West Virginia, enters the new year on the cusp of the major leagues.
Ranked just behind a trio of teenage shortstop phenoms—Konnor Griffin (Pirates, No. 1), Kevin McGonigle (Tigers, No. 2), and Jesús Made (Brewers, No. 3)—along with Athletics shortstop Leo De Vries at No. 4, Wetherholt stands out as the highest-ranked player with Triple-A experience and a realistic path to an Opening Day roster spot in 2026.
Wetherholt’s professional debut in 2025 was nothing short of electric. Across Double-A and Triple-A, he slashed .306/.421/.510.
As spring training approaches, all eyes will be on Wetherholt in Cardinals camp. With an open competition for infield spots and his bat ready to contribute immediately, a big league debut in 2026 feels not just possible—but probable.
