JJ Wetherholt signs $112.5 M extension as Cal Raleigh struggles in 2026 MLB season

St. Louis Cardinals top prospect Jonathan David “JJ” Wetherholt, the 7th‑overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft, made his major‑league debut on March 26, 2026. Through the first 105 games he posted a .251/.348/.393 slash line, 16 home runs, 12 stolen bases and 4.2 WAR, earning a strong case for National League Rookie of the Year. On July 10, 2026 the Cardinals rewarded him with an eight‑year, $112.5 million contract extension through the 2034 season. His early success has also driven demand for his 2025 Bowman rookie cards, which have fetched $80‑$120 in high grades.

Meanwhile, Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh has endured a difficult 2026 campaign. He is hitting .162, carries a –0.3 bWAR, and has a 32.7 % strikeout rate, the highest since his rookie year, while his exit velocity has fallen to 88.7 mph. Questions about his leadership and consistency have intensified as the Mariners chase a playoff spot. The season analysis also notes former MVP candidates such as Giancarlo Stanton, who remains injury‑prone with limited playing time for the New York Yankees.