St. Louis Cardinals rookie JJ Wetherholt could still return from right wrist tendinitis before the end of the season, with the next two days expected to provide a clearer indication of whether he can get back on the field.

As of Sept. 13, Wetherholt is scheduled to hit off a velocity machine Monday before participating in all pregame activities Tuesday. The Cardinals will then determine his next steps based on how his wrist responds to the increased workloadresponds to the increased workload, per MLB.com.

The second baseman has been on the 10-day injured list since Aug. 30 because of the wrist issue. He has been feeling better during his recovery and previously set a goal of returning during St. Louis’ final homestand of the season, which concludes Sunday.

That remains a possibility, although his response to Tuesday’s workout will be an important factor in determining whether the timeline is realistic.

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A return would give Wetherholt an opportunity to add to his first major league season before it ends. Per MLB stats, the 22-year-old has appeared in enough games to accumulate 505 at-bats in 2026, hitting .242 with 17 home runs, 48 RBIs and 14 stolen bases. He has posted a .713 OPS.

Wetherholt made his major league debut March 26 after quickly working his way through the Cardinals’ system. St. Louis selected the former West Virginia infielder with the No. 7 overall pick in the first round of the 2024 MLB Draft.

Monday’s work against the velocity machine will increase the intensity of his hitting progression before Tuesday’s planned pregame workout. It leaves open the possibility that he could meet his goal of returning before the team’s final homestand concludes Sunday.