JJ Wetherholt Opens Futures Game with a Bang and Earns Chipper Jones’ Praise

Three pitches were all it took for the WVU product to make some noise at the MLB Futures Game.

Jul 12, 2025; Atlanta, GA, USA; National League infielder JJ Wetherholt (26) of the St. Louis Cardinals rounds the bases during the second inning against American League at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images | Brett Davis-Imagn Images

The 2025 MLB All-Star Futures Game got off to a bang with West Virginia product JJ Wetherholt belting a double to left center on the third pitch of the game. He did strike out in his second at-bat, but he was at least able to showcase his potential on the biggest stage and right off the rip.

JJ Wetherholt leads off the bottom of the 1st with a double in his first Futures Game plate appearance. pic.twitter.com/exirXfcWaN
— Cardinals Player Development (@CardsPlayerDev) July 12, 2025

Shortly after reaching second base, MLB Hall of Famer and manager for the National League, Chipper Jones, praised Wetherholt, believing he'll be in the big leagues before long.

“This kid’s a player. That’s why I wanted him at the top of the lineup," Jones said. "I think you’re going to see him starting in St. Louis pretty soon.”

Wetherholt is the 19th-ranked prospect by MLB.com and No. 1 in the Cardinals' organization. He could rejoin the Redbirds tomorrow for the series finale in Charlotte against the Knights, but may get the day off. Next Friday, they'll begin a three-game slate against the Toledo Mud Hens.

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