The St. Louis Cardinals have activated second baseman JJ Wetherholt from the injured list, bringing the promising rookie back into the lineup for Wednesday’s series finale against the San Francisco Giants.
Wetherholt was placed on the injured list on August 30 after struggling through a two-game series against the Pittsburgh Pirates, going 0-for-8 at the plate. The 24-year-old had also been dealing with discomfort in his wrist for more than a month before the Cardinals decided to give him time to recover.
With Wetherholt returning, St. Louis also made corresponding roster moves. The club designated right-handed pitcher Peter Strzelecki and infielder Ramón Urías for assignment, opening spots on the roster for Wetherholt and the other necessary moves.
Wetherholt has been an important part of the Cardinals’ lineup during his first full season in the majors. He is hitting .242 with 17 home runs and 48 RBIs across 130 games this season. His return gives St. Louis another young offensive option as the club continues through the final stretch of the season.
The Cardinals showed their long-term commitment to Wetherholt in July by signing him to an eight-year, $112.5 million contract extension. The deal underscored the organization’s belief that he can become a key piece of its lineup for years to come.
St. Louis selected Wetherholt with the seventh overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft. Before reaching the majors, the left-handed hitter built an impressive résumé at West Virginia, where he established himself as one of the top players in college baseball.
Wetherholt also made a strong impression in the minor leagues. Last season, he was named the Texas League Most Valuable Player while playing for Double-A Springfield, despite appearing in only 62 games. His performance further increased expectations surrounding his future with the Cardinals.
Now back from the injured list, Wetherholt will look to regain his rhythm at the plate and provide the Cardinals with a boost during the closing weeks of the season. His health and production will be closely watched as St. Louis evaluates its young core and prepares for the future.
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