rockondlouie wrote: ↑31 Jan 2026 08:32 am
Lotta pressure on these kids coming up (JJW, Doyle, R.R. etal).
The god this is this generation seems to not be phased by "The Show" and aren't as intimidated.
The more I read about JJ, the more I think he's going to have no issues just like M. Winn who wasn't awed by the bright lights either.
Yes, you are correct that JJ is not going to let the hype deter him . Here is why :
St. Louis Cardinals top prospect JJ Wetherholt is widely praised for having the "intangibles"—specifically, an elite work ethic, high-level baseball IQ, and a humble, grounded personality. Beyond his physical tools, these traits include strong mental toughness, a professional approach to the game, and a desire to make the most of his opportunities, which coaches and scouts highlight as elevating his already high-level talent.
It is the above that have baseball people excited about JJ... the 'intangibles' He is very focused and humble type personality . He has handled all the notiriety well since college, being highly drafted, in the minors , and his intangibles impressed the Cardinals brass at last year's ST invite.
Below are more details to his intangibles :
Work Ethic & Mindset: Described as humble and highly motivated, focusing on proving his value to those who believe in him rather than solely on doubters.
High Baseball IQ: Demonstrates advanced in-game decision-making, including excellent swing decisions, pitch recognition, and ability to manipulate the barrel.
Leadership & Poise: Recognized for having "all the necessary intangibles" to succeed at the Major League level, with a high floor due to his maturity and approach to the game.
Versatility: Capable of handling positions at 2B and 3B, adjusting to new roles to maximize team value.
Wetherholt is considered a potential 2026 Opening Day roster candidate for the Cardinals, boasting a high-level hit tool combined with these professional-grade mental attributes.
Yep
I just read the same this morning, kids got some charisma and a strong work ethic.
(And please excuse my sloppy fingers for the stupid typos & poor wording above, I was answering on my iphone instead of my office computer )
No problems with the typos etc. using the phone I have done the same when typing on my iphone. What is good about Wetherholt is that he is not type to hang his head. I think in one interview in offseason he said (paraphrasting) I know in baseball I will go 0 for whatever streak . All players in the majors no matter how talented have those stretches. I won't be any different. It's how baseball works. He doesn't watch the papers with his batting avg. etc. Each time is a new at bat for him . Now some posters on here will start criticizing him if he has a low batting avg. in ST or to start the year. Heck Jackson Chourio started quite weak his first two months with Brewers. They knew he had talent and kept playing him .
He had a big 2nd half of the year and ended with .270 ? batting average.
The think with JJ is just let him play for the full 6 months . Needless to say , there willalways be those who criticize if he starts very low, they will say See, he isn't good OR he was rushed blah blah If he starts hot, the same ones will say Well he will cool off once the pitchers see him more. So don't get too excited. JJ will tune out the negative noise. He knows how it works . He just will play hard and ignore the naysayers.
From the little I've learned I love the kids moxie/confidence, willingness to learn/accept coaching and work ethic.
(NO WAY am I making a stupid comparison, they're different type hitters but that also described a young Albert)
I know what it takes to have the success he had in college and how hard it is.
I also know what kind of a hitter he is from that success + his minor league performance and what my expectations are for him in MLB.
I've been saying this all offseason dan, just ink his name in at 2nd base and in the lead-off or #2 hole on the lineup card and turn him loose!
rockondlouie wrote: ↑31 Jan 2026 08:32 am
Lotta pressure on these kids coming up (JJW, Doyle, R.R. etal).
The god this is this generation seems to not be phased by "The Show" and aren't as intimidated.
The more I read about JJ, the more I think he's going to have no issues just like M. Winn who wasn't awed by the bright lights either.
Yes, you are correct that JJ is not going to let the hype deter him . Here is why :
St. Louis Cardinals top prospect JJ Wetherholt is widely praised for having the "intangibles"—specifically, an elite work ethic, high-level baseball IQ, and a humble, grounded personality. Beyond his physical tools, these traits include strong mental toughness, a professional approach to the game, and a desire to make the most of his opportunities, which coaches and scouts highlight as elevating his already high-level talent.
It is the above that have baseball people excited about JJ... the 'intangibles' He is very focused and humble type personality . He has handled all the notiriety well since college, being highly drafted, in the minors , and his intangibles impressed the Cardinals brass at last year's ST invite.
Below are more details to his intangibles :
Work Ethic & Mindset: Described as humble and highly motivated, focusing on proving his value to those who believe in him rather than solely on doubters.
High Baseball IQ: Demonstrates advanced in-game decision-making, including excellent swing decisions, pitch recognition, and ability to manipulate the barrel.
Leadership & Poise: Recognized for having "all the necessary intangibles" to succeed at the Major League level, with a high floor due to his maturity and approach to the game.
Versatility: Capable of handling positions at 2B and 3B, adjusting to new roles to maximize team value.
Wetherholt is considered a potential 2026 Opening Day roster candidate for the Cardinals, boasting a high-level hit tool combined with these professional-grade mental attributes.
Yep
I just read the same this morning, kids got some charisma and a strong work ethic.
(And please excuse my sloppy fingers for the stupid typos & poor wording above, I was answering on my iphone instead of my office computer )
No problems with the typos etc. using the phone I have done the same when typing on my iphone. What is good about Wetherholt is that he is not type to hang his head. I think in one interview in offseason he said (paraphrasting) I know in baseball I will go 0 for whatever streak . All players in the majors no matter how talented have those stretches. I won't be any different. It's how baseball works. He doesn't watch the papers with his batting avg. etc. Each time is a new at bat for him . Now some posters on here will start criticizing him if he has a low batting avg. in ST or to start the year. Heck Jackson Chourio started quite weak his first two months with Brewers. They knew he had talent and kept playing him .
He had a big 2nd half of the year and ended with .270 ? batting average.
The think with JJ is just let him play for the full 6 months . Needless to say , there willalways be those who criticize if he starts very low, they will say See, he isn't good OR he was rushed blah blah If he starts hot, the same ones will say Well he will cool off once the pitchers see him more. So don't get too excited. JJ will tune out the negative noise. He knows how it works . He just will play hard and ignore the naysayers.
From the little I've learned I love the kids moxie/confidence, willingness to learn/accept coaching and work ethic.
(NO WAY am I making a stupid comparison, they're different type hitters but that also described a young Albert)
I know what it takes to have the success he had in college and how hard it is.
I also know what kind of a hitter he is from that success + his minor league performance and what my expectations are for him in MLB.
I've been saying this all offseason dan, just ink his name in at 2nd base and in the lead-off or #2 hole on the lineup card and turn him loose!
Yes, just put him out there and watch him play. Those wanting a certain WAR things and all that metrics are missing the point. Bloom wants JJ to get action and should JJ happen to play very well , the Cardinals have a shot to get an extra draft pick either this year or somewwhere in the first 3 years .
Bloom sure wants to play him and clearing the 2nd base spot is the easiest way .
rockondlouie wrote: ↑31 Jan 2026 08:32 am
Lotta pressure on these kids coming up (JJW, Doyle, R.R. etal).
The god this is this generation seems to not be phased by "The Show" and aren't as intimidated.
The more I read about JJ, the more I think he's going to have no issues just like M. Winn who wasn't awed by the bright lights either.
Yes, you are correct that JJ is not going to let the hype deter him . Here is why :
St. Louis Cardinals top prospect JJ Wetherholt is widely praised for having the "intangibles"—specifically, an elite work ethic, high-level baseball IQ, and a humble, grounded personality. Beyond his physical tools, these traits include strong mental toughness, a professional approach to the game, and a desire to make the most of his opportunities, which coaches and scouts highlight as elevating his already high-level talent.
It is the above that have baseball people excited about JJ... the 'intangibles' He is very focused and humble type personality . He has handled all the notiriety well since college, being highly drafted, in the minors , and his intangibles impressed the Cardinals brass at last year's ST invite.
Below are more details to his intangibles :
Work Ethic & Mindset: Described as humble and highly motivated, focusing on proving his value to those who believe in him rather than solely on doubters.
High Baseball IQ: Demonstrates advanced in-game decision-making, including excellent swing decisions, pitch recognition, and ability to manipulate the barrel.
Leadership & Poise: Recognized for having "all the necessary intangibles" to succeed at the Major League level, with a high floor due to his maturity and approach to the game.
Versatility: Capable of handling positions at 2B and 3B, adjusting to new roles to maximize team value.
Wetherholt is considered a potential 2026 Opening Day roster candidate for the Cardinals, boasting a high-level hit tool combined with these professional-grade mental attributes.
Yep
I just read the same this morning, kids got some charisma and a strong work ethic.
(And please excuse my sloppy fingers for the stupid typos & poor wording above, I was answering on my iphone instead of my office computer )
No problems with the typos etc. using the phone I have done the same when typing on my iphone. What is good about Wetherholt is that he is not type to hang his head. I think in one interview in offseason he said (paraphrasting) I know in baseball I will go 0 for whatever streak . All players in the majors no matter how talented have those stretches. I won't be any different. It's how baseball works. He doesn't watch the papers with his batting avg. etc. Each time is a new at bat for him . Now some posters on here will start criticizing him if he has a low batting avg. in ST or to start the year. Heck Jackson Chourio started quite weak his first two months with Brewers. They knew he had talent and kept playing him .
He had a big 2nd half of the year and ended with .270 ? batting average.
The think with JJ is just let him play for the full 6 months . Needless to say , there willalways be those who criticize if he starts very low, they will say See, he isn't good OR he was rushed blah blah If he starts hot, the same ones will say Well he will cool off once the pitchers see him more. So don't get too excited. JJ will tune out the negative noise. He knows how it works . He just will play hard and ignore the naysayers.
From the little I've learned I love the kids moxie/confidence, willingness to learn/accept coaching and work ethic.
(NO WAY am I making a stupid comparison, they're different type hitters but that also described a young Albert)
I know what it takes to have the success he had in college and how hard it is.
I also know what kind of a hitter he is from that success + his minor league performance and what my expectations are for him in MLB.
I've been saying this all offseason dan, just ink his name in at 2nd base and in the lead-off or #2 hole on the lineup card and turn him loose!
Yes, just put him out there and watch him play. Those wanting a certain WAR things and all that metrics are missing the point. Bloom wants JJ to get action and should JJ happen to play very well , the Cardinals have a shot to get an extra draft pick either this year or somewwhere in the first 3 years .
Bloom sure wants to play him and clearing the 2nd base spot is the easiest way .
For sure
And many national sites already have him as their favorite for ROY and that draft pick that would come with it!
rockondlouie wrote: ↑31 Jan 2026 08:32 am
Lotta pressure on these kids coming up (JJW, Doyle, R.R. etal).
The god this is this generation seems to not be phased by "The Show" and aren't as intimidated.
The more I read about JJ, the more I think he's going to have no issues just like M. Winn who wasn't awed by the bright lights either.
Yes, you are correct that JJ is not going to let the hype deter him . Here is why :
St. Louis Cardinals top prospect JJ Wetherholt is widely praised for having the "intangibles"—specifically, an elite work ethic, high-level baseball IQ, and a humble, grounded personality. Beyond his physical tools, these traits include strong mental toughness, a professional approach to the game, and a desire to make the most of his opportunities, which coaches and scouts highlight as elevating his already high-level talent.
It is the above that have baseball people excited about JJ... the 'intangibles' He is very focused and humble type personality . He has handled all the notiriety well since college, being highly drafted, in the minors , and his intangibles impressed the Cardinals brass at last year's ST invite.
Below are more details to his intangibles :
Work Ethic & Mindset: Described as humble and highly motivated, focusing on proving his value to those who believe in him rather than solely on doubters.
High Baseball IQ: Demonstrates advanced in-game decision-making, including excellent swing decisions, pitch recognition, and ability to manipulate the barrel.
Leadership & Poise: Recognized for having "all the necessary intangibles" to succeed at the Major League level, with a high floor due to his maturity and approach to the game.
Versatility: Capable of handling positions at 2B and 3B, adjusting to new roles to maximize team value.
Wetherholt is considered a potential 2026 Opening Day roster candidate for the Cardinals, boasting a high-level hit tool combined with these professional-grade mental attributes.
Yep
I just read the same this morning, kids got some charisma and a strong work ethic.
(And please excuse my sloppy fingers for the stupid typos & poor wording above, I was answering on my iphone instead of my office computer )
No problems with the typos etc. using the phone I have done the same when typing on my iphone. What is good about Wetherholt is that he is not type to hang his head. I think in one interview in offseason he said (paraphrasting) I know in baseball I will go 0 for whatever streak . All players in the majors no matter how talented have those stretches. I won't be any different. It's how baseball works. He doesn't watch the papers with his batting avg. etc. Each time is a new at bat for him . Now some posters on here will start criticizing him if he has a low batting avg. in ST or to start the year. Heck Jackson Chourio started quite weak his first two months with Brewers. They knew he had talent and kept playing him .
He had a big 2nd half of the year and ended with .270 ? batting average.
The think with JJ is just let him play for the full 6 months . Needless to say , there willalways be those who criticize if he starts very low, they will say See, he isn't good OR he was rushed blah blah If he starts hot, the same ones will say Well he will cool off once the pitchers see him more. So don't get too excited. JJ will tune out the negative noise. He knows how it works . He just will play hard and ignore the naysayers.
From the little I've learned I love the kids moxie/confidence, willingness to learn/accept coaching and work ethic.
(NO WAY am I making a stupid comparison, they're different type hitters but that also described a young Albert)
I know what it takes to have the success he had in college and how hard it is.
I also know what kind of a hitter he is from that success + his minor league performance and what my expectations are for him in MLB.
I've been saying this all offseason dan, just ink his name in at 2nd base and in the lead-off or #2 hole on the lineup card and turn him loose!
Yes, just put him out there and watch him play. Those wanting a certain WAR things and all that metrics are missing the point. Bloom wants JJ to get action and should JJ happen to play very well , the Cardinals have a shot to get an extra draft pick either this year or somewwhere in the first 3 years .
Bloom sure wants to play him and clearing the 2nd base spot is the easiest way .
For sure
And many national sites already have him as their favorite for ROY and that draft pick that would come with it!
[/
and while that would be pleasant development, fans should not have that as expectation . ( That's what some mean by some have 'too high expectations' ) . Bloom knows it's a possibility so the reason he wants to play JJ Smart to play JJ and see what happens .
Jatalk wrote: ↑31 Jan 2026 07:37 am
Based on where we are and what we’ve seen you would have to say your scenario would set the organization back significantly. Right now it looks like total dependence on youth development.
I don’t think they will both fail. I do think many on CT have set initial expectations too high.
I am hoping that the organization has a second phase to the rebuild. This phase would include increasing payroll and adding some veterans to a youth filled line up. I may be dreaming.
Could you please detail the 'many on CT that have set initial expectations too high' on Wetherholt . Please give specific examples on what was posted that you deemed 'too high' . Thanks Jatalk
I really don’t won’t to spend the time highlighting examples. But surely you have seen them. Let me generalize a couple of things:
1. Many assume he is in the opening day line up. He has not faced one MLB pitcher and his defensive position is not set in stone. I think he will be there but am not going to be surprised if he starts in AAA.
2. Secondly look at history. Carlson, Walker , Gorman, etc. all supposedly had the talent and intangibles many speak to on this board for JJ. Yet here we go again with JJ with the accolades.
3. Look at the number of posts on CT featuring JJ. It is numerous and 99.99% are counting big on him.
I think he is a great player. I think he will be great. But I’m giving him time.
Doyle is very similar. Many have him in the rotation and some by year end. Some experts think he is a piece for the pen due to mechanics. We will see.
Posts regarding Wetherholt being on the roster on opening day has come from POBO Bloom and manager Marmol
Both expressed that at the Winter Warm Up . So that is not fan speculation .
Yes, St. Louis Cardinals president of baseball operations Chaim Bloom and manager Oliver Marmol have indicated that top prospect JJ Wetherholt will be given every opportunity to win a spot in the starting lineup for the 2026 Opening Day roster.
Chaim Bloom's Stance: Bloom has been "adamant" that Wetherholt will have the chance to make the Opening Day roster and has praised the infielder's maturity and ability to hit to all fields.
Oli Marmol's View: Marmol confirmed in January 2026 that Wetherholt "definitely has a chance" to make the team, citing his impressive performance in the 2025 spring training and high-pressure situations.
So those two have said everything short of 'yes, Wetherholt will be on the Opening Day roster this year ' as no POBO or manager do that .
They always take the tried and true 'every player must earn a spot' All the other returning Cardinals know that Wetherholt will be on the 2026 opening day roster.
Nothing is guaranteed but those two would not be making those comments if they felt that JJ was slated to start the year in AAA. He has played well in both AA and AAA and they feel he is ready for the majors and they will play him . The surprise would be that he starts the year at AAA.
Many speculate JJ is the reason that Bloom is willing to trade Donovan now as he wants to open up 2nd base spot for Wetherholt if possible .
I’m afraid you think I am being negative about JJ. I’m not. I think he has real potential but I’m not falling into the hype trap. You asked for examples of expectations being too high just read the comments on this thread alone. Like everyone else I am hoping he has a great year.
rockondlouie wrote: ↑31 Jan 2026 08:32 am
Lotta pressure on these kids coming up (JJW, Doyle, R.R. etal).
The god this is this generation seems to not be phased by "The Show" and aren't as intimidated.
The more I read about JJ, the more I think he's going to have no issues just like M. Winn who wasn't awed by the bright lights either.
Yes, you are correct that JJ is not going to let the hype deter him . Here is why :
St. Louis Cardinals top prospect JJ Wetherholt is widely praised for having the "intangibles"—specifically, an elite work ethic, high-level baseball IQ, and a humble, grounded personality. Beyond his physical tools, these traits include strong mental toughness, a professional approach to the game, and a desire to make the most of his opportunities, which coaches and scouts highlight as elevating his already high-level talent.
It is the above that have baseball people excited about JJ... the 'intangibles' He is very focused and humble type personality . He has handled all the notiriety well since college, being highly drafted, in the minors , and his intangibles impressed the Cardinals brass at last year's ST invite.
Below are more details to his intangibles :
Work Ethic & Mindset: Described as humble and highly motivated, focusing on proving his value to those who believe in him rather than solely on doubters.
High Baseball IQ: Demonstrates advanced in-game decision-making, including excellent swing decisions, pitch recognition, and ability to manipulate the barrel.
Leadership & Poise: Recognized for having "all the necessary intangibles" to succeed at the Major League level, with a high floor due to his maturity and approach to the game.
Versatility: Capable of handling positions at 2B and 3B, adjusting to new roles to maximize team value.
Wetherholt is considered a potential 2026 Opening Day roster candidate for the Cardinals, boasting a high-level hit tool combined with these professional-grade mental attributes.
Yep
I just read the same this morning, kids got some charisma and a strong work ethic.
(And please excuse my sloppy fingers for the stupid typos & poor wording above, I was answering on my iphone instead of my office computer )
No problems with the typos etc. using the phone I have done the same when typing on my iphone. What is good about Wetherholt is that he is not type to hang his head. I think in one interview in offseason he said (paraphrasting) I know in baseball I will go 0 for whatever streak . All players in the majors no matter how talented have those stretches. I won't be any different. It's how baseball works. He doesn't watch the papers with his batting avg. etc. Each time is a new at bat for him . Now some posters on here will start criticizing him if he has a low batting avg. in ST or to start the year. Heck Jackson Chourio started quite weak his first two months with Brewers. They knew he had talent and kept playing him .
He had a big 2nd half of the year and ended with .270 ? batting average.
The think with JJ is just let him play for the full 6 months . Needless to say , there willalways be those who criticize if he starts very low, they will say See, he isn't good OR he was rushed blah blah If he starts hot, the same ones will say Well he will cool off once the pitchers see him more. So don't get too excited. JJ will tune out the negative noise. He knows how it works . He just will play hard and ignore the naysayers.
From the little I've learned I love the kids moxie/confidence, willingness to learn/accept coaching and work ethic.
(NO WAY am I making a stupid comparison, they're different type hitters but that also described a young Albert)
I know what it takes to have the success he had in college and how hard it is.
I also know what kind of a hitter he is from that success + his minor league performance and what my expectations are for him in MLB.
I've been saying this all offseason dan, just ink his name in at 2nd base and in the lead-off or #2 hole on the lineup card and turn him loose!
Yes, just put him out there and watch him play. Those wanting a certain WAR things and all that metrics are missing the point. Bloom wants JJ to get action and should JJ happen to play very well , the Cardinals have a shot to get an extra draft pick either this year or somewwhere in the first 3 years .
Bloom sure wants to play him and clearing the 2nd base spot is the easiest way .
For sure
And many national sites already have him as their favorite for ROY and that draft pick that would come with it!
[/
and while that would be pleasant development, fans should not have that as expectation . ( That's what some mean by some have 'too high expectations' ) . Bloom knows it's a possibility so the reason he wants to play JJ Smart to play JJ and see what happens .
Jatalk wrote: ↑31 Jan 2026 07:37 am
Based on where we are and what we’ve seen you would have to say your scenario would set the organization back significantly. Right now it looks like total dependence on youth development.
I don’t think they will both fail. I do think many on CT have set initial expectations too high.
I am hoping that the organization has a second phase to the rebuild. This phase would include increasing payroll and adding some veterans to a youth filled line up. I may be dreaming.
Could you please detail the 'many on CT that have set initial expectations too high' on Wetherholt . Please give specific examples on what was posted that you deemed 'too high' . Thanks Jatalk
I really don’t won’t to spend the time highlighting examples. But surely you have seen them. Let me generalize a couple of things:
1. Many assume he is in the opening day line up. He has not faced one MLB pitcher and his defensive position is not set in stone. I think he will be there but am not going to be surprised if he starts in AAA.
2. Secondly look at history. Carlson, Walker , Gorman, etc. all supposedly had the talent and intangibles many speak to on this board for JJ. Yet here we go again with JJ with the accolades.
3. Look at the number of posts on CT featuring JJ. It is numerous and 99.99% are counting big on him.
I think he is a great player. I think he will be great. But I’m giving him time.
Doyle is very similar. Many have him in the rotation and some by year end. Some experts think he is a piece for the pen due to mechanics. We will see.
Posts regarding Wetherholt being on the roster on opening day has come from POBO Bloom and manager Marmol
Both expressed that at the Winter Warm Up . So that is not fan speculation .
Yes, St. Louis Cardinals president of baseball operations Chaim Bloom and manager Oliver Marmol have indicated that top prospect JJ Wetherholt will be given every opportunity to win a spot in the starting lineup for the 2026 Opening Day roster.
Chaim Bloom's Stance: Bloom has been "adamant" that Wetherholt will have the chance to make the Opening Day roster and has praised the infielder's maturity and ability to hit to all fields.
Oli Marmol's View: Marmol confirmed in January 2026 that Wetherholt "definitely has a chance" to make the team, citing his impressive performance in the 2025 spring training and high-pressure situations.
So those two have said everything short of 'yes, Wetherholt will be on the Opening Day roster this year ' as no POBO or manager do that .
They always take the tried and true 'every player must earn a spot' All the other returning Cardinals know that Wetherholt will be on the 2026 opening day roster.
Nothing is guaranteed but those two would not be making those comments if they felt that JJ was slated to start the year in AAA. He has played well in both AA and AAA and they feel he is ready for the majors and they will play him . The surprise would be that he starts the year at AAA.
Many speculate JJ is the reason that Bloom is willing to trade Donovan now as he wants to open up 2nd base spot for Wetherholt if possible .
I’m afraid you think I am being negative about JJ. I’m not. I think he has real potential but I’m not falling into the hype trap. You asked for examples of expectations being too high just read the comments on this thread alone. Like everyone else I am hoping he has a great year.
I certainly don't think you are negative regarding JJ. I think there is true excitement about a talented young player coming to the majors for a team . Pirate fans were truly excited about having first round pick Paul Skenes pitching for them . Was that a hype train ? No, it was fans being excited about a very talented player. Wetherholt was rated by many scouts as the best hitting prospect in his draft and could go No. 1 but did not due to his hamstring injury not his lack of talent. Think Cardinal fans excited to see how Wetherholt does is very healthy. It is good to hear that baseball people outside the Cardinal organization also speak highly of his ability. No hype here. . Just rooting for a very talented player that is on the verge of making his MLB debut in 2026.
)