Cardinals top prospect JJ Wetherholt will compete for a starting job in spring training.
The St. Louis Cardinals are set to give their top prospect, infielder JJ Wetherholt, a legitimate shot at earning a starting role during spring training ahead of the 2026 season. The 23-year-old, widely regarded as one of baseball's premier young talents, enters camp with high expectations following a standout 2025 minor league campaign that saw him post impressive on-base numbers and power across Double-A and Triple-A levels.Wetherholt, the Cardinals' first-round pick in the 2024 MLB Draft out of West Virginia, has quickly ascended through the system thanks to his elite hit tool, disciplined approach at the plate, and versatility across the infield. He split time between shortstop, second base, and third base in Triple-A Memphis last year, showcasing the adaptability that makes him a prime candidate for an everyday spot. Recent reports indicate he will receive significant opportunities, particularly at third base, where the position has opened up following the trade of veteran Nolan Arenado to the Arizona Diamondbacks earlier this month.The Arenado deal, which brought back young pitching prospect Jack Martinez and additional financial flexibility, aligns with the Cardinals' ongoing rebuild under new president of baseball operations Chaim Bloom. With an emphasis on injecting youth into the lineup, Wetherholt fits perfectly into that vision. Analysts and executives have taken notice—MLB Pipeline reported that baseball front-office personnel voted him as the most likely National League Rookie of the Year for 2026, highlighting the buzz surrounding his potential impact.Wetherholt himself has expressed confidence, stating his goal is to make the Opening Day roster rather than treat spring training as a mere developmental experience. His advanced bat-to-ball skills, low strikeout rate, and ability to drive the ball give him a realistic path to contributing immediately, whether at third base, second, or in a utility role. If he performs well this spring, many believe the Cardinals will have little choice but to fast-track him, potentially anchoring the infield for years to come amid a transitional roster featuring prospects like Masyn Winn, Nolan Gorman, and Thomas Saggese.This development marks an exciting chapter for Cardinals fans eager to see the next wave of homegrown talent arrive in St. Louis. Spring training will be pivotal in determining whether Wetherholt begins 2026 in the majors or needs additional seasoning, but the organization's direction suggests they're ready to bet on his readiness.
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This is the piece to solve our puzzle.

, possibly a future Cy young winner.