Wetherholt publicly declares his preferred position within the Cardinals team
In a recent development, infielder JJ Wetherholt has been receiving reps at third base in Memphis, but the real conversation surrounds his potential to play center field. With Jackson Merrill's successful transition from shortstop to center field, questions about Wetherholt's future in the outfield have arisen due to the uncertainty in that group.
Wetherholt, primarily an infielder and a true shortstop, has expressed a desire to be a hitter who can find a spot in the lineup. He is confident in his abilities and focused on maximizing his opportunities to help the team win. Wetherholt acknowledged his past outfield experience and is open to playing there, although center field is not his main position.
The St. Louis Cardinals are considering leveraging Wetherholt's versatility to give him more chances to play when he gets to St. Louis. Currently, Masyn Winn holds the shortstop position, while Brendan Donovan, Nolan Gorman, and Nolan Arenado occupy second and third base spots. Wetherholt has stated his preference for shortstop or second base, but he is willing to play anywhere except first base or catcher.
If Wetherholt can make the transition to the outfield, it could open up possibilities for the team's roster long-term. Particularly, if Arenado is traded this offseason, that could open up third base, but it's unclear if that's a position they want Nolan Gorman to man more often.
Wetherholt's willingness to play a new position indicates a strong desire to contribute to the Cardinals' team. His athleticism should translate well to the outfield, and the team might want to see what he looks like in the outfield in the coming weeks.
Donovan has been one of the best defensive second basemen in baseball this year, which has long been the expected position for Wetherholt. However, discussions about moving him to other positions are ongoing. Wetherholt's main goal is to be someone who can hit and help the team win, and he has expressed his readiness to play a new position in the St. Louis Cardinals' lineup.
Wetherholt's readiness to adapt his position might extend to the outfield, given his past experience and the team's interest in his versatility. In the event of a potential Arenado trade, the third base vacancy could be an opportunity for Wetherholt to prove his worth in the outfield, while also offering a solution for the uncertainty in that position.
