What's Happening?
JJ Wetherholt, a top prospect for the St. Louis Cardinals, is set to return to the lineup at Triple-A Memphis after missing five games due to general soreness. According to Katie Woo of The Athletic, Wetherholt has been dealing with a non-baseball ailment but will resume playing as the designated hitter before returning to field duties later in the week. Wetherholt has been impressive this season, slashing .309/.423/.519 with 16 home runs, 21 stolen bases, and a 67:66 strikeout-to-walk ratio over 100 games between Double-A Springfield and Memphis. Despite his strong performance, Wetherholt is not expected to be promoted to the major leagues this month.
Why It's Important?
Wetherholt's return is significant for the Cardinals' minor league system, as he is considered one of their top prospects. His performance at Triple-A Memphis is crucial for his development and potential future impact on the major league team. The Cardinals are likely to monitor his recovery and performance closely, as his skills could be vital for the team's long-term strategy. Wetherholt's ability to contribute offensively and defensively at the minor league level could influence the Cardinals' decisions regarding player promotions and roster adjustments.
What's Next?
Wetherholt will continue to play at Triple-A Memphis, focusing on regaining his form and contributing to the team's success. The Cardinals will evaluate his performance and health, considering potential future promotions to the major league roster. As the season progresses, Wetherholt's development will be a key factor in the Cardinals' planning for upcoming seasons, potentially impacting their strategy for integrating young talent into the major league team.