“Cardinals’ Top Prospect Unlikely to Make MLB Debut in 2025, Says GM John Mozeliak”
In a recent statement, St. Louis Cardinals’ General Manager John Mozeliak revealed that it is highly unlikely for shortstop prospect JJ Wetherholt to receive a call-up to the MLB in 2025. This news comes as a disappointment to fans who have been eagerly anticipating the young player’s debut in the big leagues.
Wetherholt, who was drafted by the Cardinals in 2020, has shown great potential in the minor leagues. However, Mozeliak believes that the 22-year-old still needs more time to develop and hone his skills before making the jump to the majors.
“We have high hopes for JJ and his future with the Cardinals, but we want to make sure he is fully prepared for the challenges of the MLB before bringing him up,” Mozeliak stated.
This decision may come as a surprise to some, as Wetherholt has been making waves in the minor leagues with his impressive batting average and defensive abilities. However, the Cardinals’ organization is known for taking a patient approach with their prospects, allowing them to fully develop before promoting them to the big leagues.
While it may be disappointing for Wetherholt and his fans, this decision ultimately shows the Cardinals’ commitment to nurturing their young talent and setting them up for long-term success in the MLB. As for now, Wetherholt will continue to work hard and strive towards his dream of playing in the majors, with the support and guidance of the Cardinals’ organization.
Cardinals GM Denies Rumors of Top Prospect’s Call-Up, Focusing on Future Opportunities
The months of August and September are crucial for teams to give opportunities to up-and-coming players who could soon become everyday starters. With a 61-61 record and sitting fourth in the NL Central, the St. Louis Cardinals could be one of those teams.
MLB Pipeline’s Top 100 Prospects List Features Strong Representation from Cardinals
The Cardinals have a strong presence on MLB Pipeline’s list of top 100 prospects, with four players making the cut. Infielder JJ Wetherholt ranks at No. 6, followed by pitcher Liam Doyle at No. 35, and catchers Leonardo Bernal at No. 74 and Rainiel Rodriguez at No. 99.
Wetherholt, who has already reached Triple-A, is the closest of the four to make his major league debut. However, Cardinals president of baseball operations John Mozeliak has shut down any rumors of a call-up for the 22-year-old prospect.
Mozeliak: No Plans to Call Up Wetherholt in 2025 Season
In an interview on 101 ESPN’s “The Morning After STL” show, Mozeliak stated that the organization does not plan to call up Wetherholt during the 2025 season. He explained that it is not the protection year for Wetherholt, and it would not be in the best interest of the organization to do so.
Mozeliak’s announcement comes as a rare setback for Wetherholt, who has had a strong season thus far. Just three days ago, he was named the Cardinals’ Minor League Player of July after putting up impressive numbers with a .306/.395/.708 slash line, seven home runs, 16 RBIs, and 18 runs scored in 19 games with the Memphis Redbirds and Springfield Cardinals.
Originally drafted as the No. 7 overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft, Wetherholt has continued to impress with a .300 batting average, 14 home runs, 48 RBIs, 61 runs scored, and a .930 OPS in 85 total appearances in 2025. While fans may be disappointed by the news, it is clear that the Cardinals are focused on Wetherholt’s long-term development and future opportunities with the team.
