Potential MLB Prospects for the St. Louis Cardinals' 7th Selection in the 2024 Draft
The St. Louis Cardinals find themselves in an exciting position as they approach the 2024 Major League Baseball (MLB) Draft, holding the seventh overall pick. The pick comes as a result of the team's disappointing 2023 season, which saw them struggle and ultimately secure a top-10 spot in the draft.
Excluding Charlie Condon and Travis Bazzana, who are not expected to fall to the seventh pick, the Cardinals have a variety of promising prospects to consider. Here are seven potential players the Cardinals could select based on the latest prospect rankings and draft discussions:
1. J.J. Wetherholt: Listed as the No. 7 overall pick for St. Louis on the 2024 draft board, Wetherholt is a leading candidate at that spot.
2. Jamie Arnold: A left-handed pitcher from Florida State, Arnold is highly regarded for his unique release point and strong track record.
3. Kade Anderson: Hailing from LSU, Anderson is a top-ranked college pitcher with a fastball reaching 96 mph and strong mechanics.
4. Liam Doyle: Known for his explosive fastball and dominance during the college season, Doyle is a Tennessee left-handed pitcher that could catch the Cardinals' eye.
5. Billy Carlson: A shortstop from Corona High School, Carlson is projected for early rounds and is noted for his defensive skills.
6. Eli Willits: An Oklahoma high school shortstop, Willits is highly regarded among the top prospects for early selection.
7. Ethan Holliday: A highly ranked third baseman from Stillwater, Holliday is another realistic candidate for early picks.
These players represent a mix of top college pitchers, position players, and high school talent who might be in consideration for the Cardinals at No. 7. The Cardinals' final choice will depend on their draft strategy and positional needs.
The Cardinals have not drafted in the top-10 since 1998, when they selected J.D. Drew out of Florida State. Another player the Cardinals might consider is Bazzana, a second baseman with plus hit, power, and speed tools, currently slashing .424/.589/.972 with 26 home runs.
The 2024 MLB Draft will take place on July 14th, and the Cardinals will be eager to make a strong selection to help rebuild their roster and return to their winning ways.
If the St. Louis Cardinals decide to select a collegiate pitcher with their seventh overall pick, Kade Anderson from LSU could be an appealing choice, given his top-ranked status and impressive fastball. Alternatively, Ethan Holliday, a highly ranked third baseman from Stillwater, might also be a contender for the Cardinals' pick, potentially contributing to the team's positional needs.
