The San Diego Padres reportedly discussed contract extensions with outstanding rookie outfielder Jackson Merrill before to the start of the 2024 season, before Merrill had even played his first MLB game. The Padres and Merrill were unable to reach a long-term agreement at the time, but Merrill is now expected to earn an extension this summer, according to Dennis Lin of The Athletic.
Merrill previously signed with the Padres, who drafted him 27th overall in the 2021 MLB Draft, for a $1.8 million bonus.
Merrill became one of only three players in the last 50 years to make his Opening Day debut at centre field before the age of 21. He did this despite only transitioning from shortstop to outfield during the winter. Despite his age and inexperience in centre field, Merrill frequently played like a seasoned Padres veteran, definitely helping the team return to the playoffs.
Merrill slashed.292/.326/.500 in his first season, totaling 162 hits, 77 runs, 24 home runs, and 90 RBI. He completed the season second in the Padres’ hits, runs, home runs, RBIs, and stolen bases. He also led the Padres in doubles and triples.
Merrill’s rookie season was not only impressive, but historic. He became the first Padres rookie to make the MLB All-Star Game, joining a group that included all three outfielders. Merrill went on to beat the Padres’ rookie RBI record.
The rookie won the National League Rookie of the Month title in both June and August, hitting over.300 with at least 20 RBIs each month. Merrill performed admirably both months. In August, he became the first player in MLB history to blast four game-tying home runs in the eighth inning or later within 50 days. He did it in just 12 days, according to Opta Stats. His performance has made him a viable contender for the NL Rookie of the Year award.
Merrill later made his postseason debut in October, batting.250 with six hits, four runs, one home run, and five RBIs in seven games. He hit his first career postseason home run in Game 2 of the National League Division Series.
Merrill’s future seems bright, and this potential raise is well-deserved.
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