Before stepping onto a big-league field, Joey Wendle made a lasting impression in college baseball by leading the West Chester Golden Rams to the 2012 NCAA Division II National Championship. Turning that tough, gritty college style into a successful major-league career, however, demanded patience. Drafted by Cleveland and later traded to Oakland, Wendle played only 36 games over two seasons with the Athletics before the front office traded him to Tampa Bay before the 2018 season.
The change of scenery was exactly what his career needed. Wendle went into spring training as a non-roster invitee and completely forced the Rays' hand, capturing the starting second base job out of camp. What followed was a stunning breakout rookie season. Weaponizing a compact, line-drive swing and a relentless motor, Wendle punished American League pitching to the tune of an even .300 batting average alongside 33 doubles and 16 stolen bases. His comprehensive value was underscored by a rookie-best 4.7 bWAR, fueling a fourth-place finish in the AL Rookie of the Year voting.
Despite suffering severe wrist and hamstring injuries that sidelined most of his 2019 season, Wendle made a strong comeback in 2020, becoming an indispensable versatile player for the team that won the American League pennant. His greatest contribution to Kevin Cash's team was his rare ability to play multiple infield positions with elite defensive skill. He seamlessly shifted between second base, third base, and shortstop, showcasing a glove that drew comparisons to Brooks Robinson from opponents during the postseason. This dependable performance led to a career-best year in 2021, earning him a well-deserved spot on the American League All-Star team.
Recognizing that his trade value had reached its absolute peak, the hyper-efficient Rays front office traded Wendle across the state to the Miami Marlins following the 2021 season. Wendle appeared in 440 games, racking up 371 hits, 21 home runs, and 151 RBIs.
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