JJ Wetherholt Will Vie for Rookie of the Year
The St. Louis Cardinals infielder enters the November voting period as a top candidate for the National League honor.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Baseball
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St. Louis Cardinals infielder JJ Wetherholt enters the November 2026 voting period as a strong contender for the National League Rookie of the Year Award. His candidacy is bolstered by his performance at second base and consistent offensive output throughout the season.
Why it matters
Securing this award would mark a major individual achievement for Wetherholt following a debut season defined by elite defensive metrics and impactful power hitting. His late-season return from injury ensures he remains a primary focus for voters as the season concludes.
Wetherholt hit 17 home runs during the season and currently leads all National League rookies in Wins Above Replacement. He also ranks 2nd in both Outs Above Average and runs prevented, showcasing his effectiveness at second base.
The players
JJ Wetherholt
He is an infielder for the St. Louis Cardinals who made his professional debut in March 2026.
St. Louis Cardinals
This is a professional baseball team based in St. Louis that competes in the National League.
Baseball Writers' Association of America
This organization is responsible for conducting the official voting for Major League Baseball awards.
The details
Wetherholt demonstrated significant versatility during his debut year, effectively managing a mid-season wrist injury before returning to the lineup in September. The St. Louis Cardinals recognized his contributions by naming him their Heart and Hustle Award winner in August.
Timeline
March 2026: JJ Wetherholt made his professional debut.
August 2026: Wetherholt named Cardinals Heart and Hustle Award winner.
Late August 2026: Wetherholt sidelined with a wrist injury.
September 2026: Wetherholt returns to the lineup.
November 2026: Baseball Writers' Association votes on Rookie of the Year.
Season Trajectory
Wetherholt's strong performance positions him at the forefront of the National League Rookie of the Year race as the season nears its conclusion. His candidacy highlights the impact of rookie talent on franchise competitiveness as the Cardinals prepare for the final 9 games of the regular season.
Wetherholt's high ranking in Wins Above Replacement makes him a statistical favorite for voters, while his return from injury provides the Cardinals with a full-strength lineup for their final 9 games. His elite defensive metrics in runs prevented have provided a significant anchor for the team's infield performance all season.
The takeaway
Wetherholt has proven himself as a cornerstone talent during his debut season, balancing power hitting with reliable defensive contributions. His success underscores the value of versatility for rookies navigating the physical demands of an MLB campaign.
What happens next
The Baseball Writers' Association of America is scheduled to conduct the official vote for the National League Rookie of the Year Award in November 2026.
Further reading
Follow the latest team developments on the St. Louis Baseball page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Maneater.
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