Early 2024 MLB Mock Drafts Have Wetherholt Fighting for No. 1 Overall Spot

Alek Manoah is the highest MLB Draft pick to ever come out of West Virginia's baseball program as he was selected 11th over in 2019 by the Toronto Blue Jays. But that mark might (and probably won't) last much longer thanks to rising junior second baseman, JJ Wetherholt.

The Mars, PA native followed up a strong freshman campaign by evolving into one of the best players in the entire country. He led all hitters with a .449 batting average to go along with 16 homers and 60 RBI.

With the 2023 MLB First-Year Player Draft now behind us, draft analysts have begun shifting their attention to next year's class and the Mountaineer star is already considered to be a top pick by Jonathan Mayo of MLB.com, who has Wetherholt going second overall to the Kansas City Royals. Dan Zielinski III of baseball Prospect Journal projects him first overall to the Oakland Athletics.

Jonathan Mayo

"Wetherholt won the Division I batting title by hitting .449 as a sophomore in 2023. He also slugged .787, with 16 homers and 24 doubles, while striking out in just 8.2 percent of his plate appearances. He could raise his profile even more if he gets the chance to play shortstop next year, but the bat alone is enough to put him here."

Dan Zielinski III

"Wetherholt was one of the top hitters in college baseball in the spring, showing an ability to hit for average and power while also stealing bases. The 5-foot-11, 190-pound left-handed hitter consistently squares up the baseball and shows a tremendous feel at the plate.

"As a sophomore, he hit .449 with 24 doubles, 16 home runs, 60 RBIs and 36 stolen bases in 268 plate appearances. He had 26 walks compared to 22 strikeouts. He has exceptional contact skills and uses the entire field.

"Defensively, scouts believe Wetherholt can handle either second base or third base in pro ball."

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