Cardinals Secure Star Rookie JJ Wetherholt Through 2034 with Major Extension
The St. Louis Cardinals have finalized an eight-year contract extension with standout rookie second baseman JJ Wetherholt, a deal reportedly worth $112.5 million. This agreement, which includes incentives that could elevate its value to $132 million, will keep the 23-year-old in St. Louis through the 2034 season, buying out three years of his potential free agency.
Wetherholt, the seventh overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft out of the University of West Virginia, has quickly surpassed expectations. He made the Cardinals’ Opening Day roster and has compiled an OPS+ of 119 through his first 87 big-league games. His offensive contributions include 13 home runs, 91 hits, and 57 runs scored, leading all National League rookies in runs.
Beyond his bat, Wetherholt has proven to be an elite defender, leading all MLB second basemen with 16 outs above average. His all-around performance has resulted in a 3.9 WAR, ranking him among the top position players in the National League. The Cardinals currently hold a 48-44 record in 2026, sitting three games out of the final NL wild card spot.
Wetherholt expressed his appreciation for the organization’s commitment, stating his desire to “get back to playing the baseball that this town deserves.” Cardinals president of baseball operations Chaim Bloom lauded not only Wetherholt’s on-field play but also his dedication and desire to win, noting that the young star “checks those boxes” for the franchise.
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