What happened: JJ Wetherholt is signing a long-term extension with the Cardinals, per multiple reports. The 23-year-old second baseman is hitting .267 with 13 home runs and 36 RBI in his rookie season with St. Louis.
Why it matters: The deal locks up the same Wetherholt who agreed to an 8-year, $112.5M extension per Jon Heyman as a foundational piece for a Cardinals club at 48-44 this season. Locking in the rookie now removes future arbitration and free-agency uncertainty around one of the club's core young hitters.
By the numbers: Wetherholt is batting .267 with 13 HR and 36 RBI in his rookie season. The Cardinals sit 48-44, on a one-game losing streak after going 1-4 in their last five.
What to watch: Wetherholt continues his rookie season under the new deal as the Cardinals look to stabilize their form over the second half.