The St. Louis Cardinals have been the surprise package of the National League Central this season, defying preseason predictions that painted them as a rebuilding club destined for the cellar. But now, a major wrench has reportedly been thrown into their unexpected playoff push — and it centers on 23-year-old rookie sensation JJ Wetherholt.
According to sources close to the situation, Wetherholt is dealing with a groin injury that has already forced him out of Friday night’s crucial divisional showdown against the Cincinnati Reds. And here’s where it gets dicey: insiders say there is a real chance he could also miss Saturday’s game, leaving the Cardinals’ lineup suddenly vulnerable.
Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol didn’t mince words when addressing the decision to hold Wetherholt out, telling reporters, per Derrick Goold: “Not going to push through and lose him first weeks.” That statement, while cautious, has set off alarm bells among fans and analysts alike — because it signals just how serious the organization is treating this issue.
One Cardinals insider, speaking on condition of anonymity, told us: “They’re scared to death of losing him for an extended period. This kid has been the spark plug. Without him, the energy in that clubhouse takes a hit.”
Wetherholt, who has slashed .249/.357/.400 with nine homers, seven doubles, and seven stolen bases over 58 games, has been a steady presence in a lineup that has overachieved all year. His absence, even for a few games, could reportedly disrupt the team’s rhythm just as they try to close the gap on the division-leading Milwaukee Brewers.
The Cardinals currently sit at 32-28, five games back of first place in the NL Central. The Reds, meanwhile, are 31-30 and languishing in last place — but a division this tight means every game matters. And every injury, especially to a key rookie, could be the difference between a postseason berth and a painful September collapse.
What has observers buzzing is the possibility that Wetherholt could avoid the injured list entirely. Sources say the club is taking a “wait-and-see” approach, hopeful that rest and treatment will be enough. But one team insider cautioned: “Groin injuries are tricky. You think you’re fine, then you take one swing or one step wrong, and you’re out for weeks.”
For now, the Cardinals will soldier on without their rookie infielder. Marmol and his staff are reportedly monitoring Wetherholt’s status on an hour-by-hour basis. Updates are expected to be released as they become available, but the tension is palpable in St. Louis.
First pitch for Friday night’s game against the Reds is scheduled for 8:15 PM EST. All eyes will be on that lineup card — and on whether the Cardinals’ promising season can survive this early scare.
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