Owen Henne, a top transfer‑portal prospect, has chosen to sign with the St. Louis Cardinals instead of joining West Virginia University for the upcoming season.
The Cardinals drafted him in the sixth round of the 2026 MLB Draft, attaching a slot value of $383,000 to his signing bonus.
Henne’s 2024 campaign was impressive, as he batted .375 with eight home runs and 54 RBI, and he followed it up with a .401 average, five homers and 39 RBI in the next season.
Versatility becomes the new cornerstone
His departure leaves the Mountaineers with a roster that can be reshaped, as versatile athletes such as Tyrus Hall, Ryan Piekutoski and Matt Ineich can slide into new positions.
The coaching staff had anticipated the possibility of Henne’s exit and already outlined contingency plans that keep the team competitive.
Versatility has become the new cornerstone of WVU’s strategy, allowing the squad to adapt quickly to the loss of a key player.