Brendan Donovan, a key figure for the St. Louis Cardinals this season, has recently been sidelined by a groin injury, leading to his placement on the injured list. This development, occurring early in the week, has significant implications for the team’s lineup and opens a path for the highly regarded prospect JJ Wetherholt to potentially make his major league debut in St. Louis. The Brendan Donovan Cardinals injury impact is therefore immediate, affecting both roster decisions and the team’s depth.

Donovan’s Role and Injury Status

Donovan, a fourth-year infielder, has become an indispensable player for the Cardinals, recognized as the team’s only All-Star this season and celebrated among fans for his dedication and versatility. Despite his resilient playstyle, Donovan has struggled with injuries throughout the year, recently sustaining a foot issue followed by the current groin injury that necessitated his move to the injured list. His absence leaves a vacancy in the Cardinals’ infield that must be addressed promptly given the team’s ambitions.

JJ Wetherholt’s Rise Through the Cardinals System

The arrival of JJ Wetherholt onto the major league scene appears to be timed with Donovan’s setback. Wetherholt, a 22-year-old prospect from West Virginia University, was selected seventh overall in the previous year’s draft. Since joining the Cardinals’ organization, he has impressed with both his offensive output and infield flexibility. After transitioning from A-ball to Double-A Springfield, Wetherholt maintained a strong batting average of .300 over 62 games, contributing seven home runs that prompted calls for his promotion.

Defensive Versatility and Potential Positioning

While Wetherholt’s natural position is second base, his experience includes significant time at shortstop and third base during college and minor league play. With Donovan and Masyn Winn currently holding middle infield positions for the team, opportunities for Wetherholt at second base appeared limited until the recent injury developments. Additionally, the injury to Nolan Arenado, the Cardinals’ third baseman, creates further openings, enabling Wetherholt to showcase his defensive skills at third base as seen in his recent professional start at that position.

“The 22-year-old West Virginia University alum has been in the Cardinals’ system for just over a year after St. Louis drafted him seventh overall last July,” —Russell Steinberg, ClutchPoints

“As an infielder, Wetherholt has seen the most action at shortstop, but has also played second base and played third in college. With the Cardinals’ middle infield solidified for the remainder of the season with Brendan Donovan and Masyn Winn, it’s not likely he would see much action in 2025 at either position. But Nolan Arenado is now on the injured list with a right shoulder strain, opening up a spot for him to see consistent time. Perhaps not coincidentally, Wetherholt made his first start of his professional career at third base on Sunday.” —Russell Steinberg, ClutchPoints

Performance Metrics Highlight Wetherholt’s Readiness

In 26 games at the Triple-A level, Wetherholt has delivered standout performance statistics with a batting line of .310/.403/.670, including nine home runs and seven doubles. These numbers underscore the prospect’s offensive capability and readiness for major league competition. Given his production and positional flexibility, holding Wetherholt in the minors any longer appears unwarranted, especially with Donovan’s injury leaving a gap in second base duties.

Implications for the Cardinals’ Roster and Future

The Cardinals now face a period of adjustment as they navigate Donovan’s absence. The team’s decision to promote JJ Wetherholt could provide added depth and scoring potential while offering fans a glimpse of the franchise’s future talent. Wetherholt’s performance in the major leagues may also influence subsequent roster moves and the overall team dynamic this season.

The Brendan Donovan Cardinals injury impact thus extends beyond the loss of a key player, shaping opportunities for emerging stars and testing the team’s adaptive strategies. As the season progresses, St. Louis will monitor both Donovan’s recovery and Wetherholt’s integration closely, with hopes that the prospect’s debut can help maintain the team’s competitive edge.