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Cardinals Extend JJ Wetherholt for Eight Years and $112.5 Million

The deal locks the rookie second baseman into St. Louis through 2034 with much of his later pay tied to award-based escalators.

Overview

  • The Cardinals finalized an eight-year contract worth $112.5 million that begins next season and keeps Wetherholt under club control through 2034.
  • The agreement includes a $2 million signing bonus payable Nov. 15 and a $2 million assignment bonus if he is traded.
  • Base salaries are set yearly from $2.5 million next season up to $25 million in 2034, with specific amounts disclosed for each season.
  • Up to $20 million in performance escalators are available based on MVP voting finishes and All-Star selections, with escalators eligible to start affecting pay in 2031.
  • The extension reflects the Cardinals’ strategy of locking up breakout prospects early by guaranteeing pay now and shifting upside into later, award-linked incentives.