Key Takeaways:
– JJ Wetherholt, once tipped as the No. 1 pick for the Guardians, could now be in play for the Red Sox at No. 12 due to a hamstring injury.
– ESPN’s mock draft predicts Boston might select Wetherholt at No. 12.
– Red Sox are particularly interested in Wetherholt’s impressive batting abilities.
– Despite enduring a hamstring injury, Wetherholt has managed to hit .368 with an OPS of 1.146 in 23 games.
– ESPN Insider Kiley McDaniel insists Red Sox can still acquire top-level talent in the form of infielders and promising high-school pitchers despite not being in the Top 10.
JJ Wetherholt’s Status Prior to the MLB Draft
A brief while ago, JJ Wetherholt, a promising MLB prospect, was favored as a potential top pick in the upcoming summer draft. The talented lefty-hitting infielder from West Virginia seemed destined to be the No. 1 choice for the Guardians. However, a debilitating hamstring injury, coupled with stellar performances from fellow prospects, may have shuffled the deck. Now, some speculate that Wetherholt could be a potential pick for the Boston Red Sox, who own the No. 12 pick.
Wetherholt’s Versatility and Batting Prowess
During his time with the Mountaineers, Wetherholt has showcased his versatility by playing at second base, third base, and even taking on the role of a shortstop. Though the batsman could potentially play in the outfield in the long term, considering the current wealth of outfielders, it’s more plausible he’d kickstart his career as a shortstop or second baseman.
However, what truly elevates Wetherholt’s appeal isn’t his defensive capabilities but his extraordinary batting prowess. The young star stole the limelight in 2023 with a blistering performance that earned him the “Big 12 Player of the Year” and a spot on the All-American first team. He hit an incredible .449 for the year and scored 60 RBI in 55 games, a testament to his finesse with the bat.
Red Sox’s Possibilities in the MLB Draft
Despite their No. 12 position, the Red Sox could still find themselves in a favorable situation given the depth of promising position players emerging from college and potential high-school pitchers in this year’s draft. ESPN Insider Kiley McDaniel suggests Traye Yesavage, Seaver King, and Cameron Smith along with Wetherholt as viable options for the Red Sox, believing each fits the team’s preference.
McDaniels also refreshes our memory of Wetherholt’s previous No. 1 prospect rank in his February rankings, before the unfortunate hamstring injury. The setback cost Wetherholt two months, making him take a slow downhill ride in his ranking.
Wetherholt’s Resilience Despite Injuries
Despite enduring the hamstring injury, Wetherholt has sidestepped adversity to make a striking return. Concentrating primarily as a designated hitter, the Mountaineer’s alumnus is currently boasting a .368 batting average. Over his career at WVU, he holds an impressive .379 average, cementing his place as an elite hitter with a potentially game-changing bat.
Scouting reports from Prospects Live sing praises of Wetherholt’s exceptional hit and power, indicating his potential to be one of the country’s top performers. His ability to make use of the whole field to his advantage and deliver powerful strikes, particularly towards his pull-side, suggests a truly special approach to his game.
JJ Wetherholt and Ongoing Hamstring Troubles
It should be noted that Wetherholt has been battling with a hamstring injury, not just this season, but previously with Team USA last year as well. Regardless, McDaniel’s projection may be overly optimistic for the Red Sox, as Wetherholt could get an early pick by another team. However, Red Sox fans can certainly be hopeful.
While there’s inherent risk attached to potential injury-prone players, given the Red Sox’s recent trysts with injuries, the acquisition of a resilient player like Wetherholt who has showcased a capacity to rebound effectively might just be the “special bat” the Red Sox need.