One of the top hitters in all of college baseball, West Virginia infielder JJ Wetherholt has burst onto the scene for the Mountaineers in the 2023 season. After an impressive freshman season where JJ hit .308 and was named All-Big 12 honorable mention, JJ has exploded onto the scene in 2023 as he has put together a .443 average to go along with 15 home runs and 56 RBI’s. Originally from Pennsylvania, JJ says that growing up, faith was something that he was surrounded by from an early age. JJ credits his mom for making sure it was a priority, but he says he soon saw himself drifting away. After growing up Catholic, JJ says that he began exploring things on his own and became disconnected from his faith. However, an invitation from some friends at West Virginia made all the difference for him.
“When I got to school I had some friends invite me to FCA and that’s where my love for Jesus really came back. This year has been my best year in following God and I think FCA was the biggest reason for that.”
JJ says that throughout his career, he has dealt with a lot of performance anxiety and putting pressure on himself to always play at the highest level. With that, JJ says that he lost the love for the game and found it difficult to be relaxed while playing. However, JJ says that putting faith at the forefront this year has been pivotal in helping him overcome that struggle.
Now one of the top players in the game, eyes will be glued to Wetherholt as he and the Mountaineers prepare for their chance to take home a College World Series. With his platform, JJ says that he just hopes he can make a positive impact wherever he goes.
“I just hope to be a positive influence to people all around and always bring glory to God.”
West Virginia will take on Indiana this Friday in Lexington, Kentucky for the NCAA Regionals. In just his second year with the team, he looks to do all he can to help the Mountaineers bring home a championship. With his career only beginning, JJ looks to always glorify God and use his platform for something bigger than himself.
Such a wonderful article. Thank you!!