The San Diego Padres reportedly discussed a possible extension with rookie Jackson Merrill before the regular season this year. Merrill entered the season as a shortstop, but he then transferred to an outfielder. Jackson Merrill emerged as one of the Padres best players this year.
Before his huge rookie season, the Padres knew there was something good with Jackson Merrill. They tried to lock him up for long-term. After the season Merrill had, it’s pretty obvious the Padres would have loved to get it done even more due to his season.
Jackson Merrill is in a great spot to win National League Rookie of the Year. Although, there are two other good options. Pirates right-handed phenom Paul Skenes and Brewers outfielder Jackson Chourio are the other two choices.
In his first season in the big leagues, Jackson Merrill was a big reason the Padres made the playoffs. In a total of 156 games, Merrill slashed .292/.326/.500, 24 HR, 90 RBI, 16 SB, and a .826 OPS. Merrill put up those offensive numbers while learning a whole new position.
It’s safe to say the Padres see a lot in Jackson Merrill, rightfully so. Going into the season the Padres knew they wanted to get their future right with extending Merrill. There’s a chance the Padres and Jackson Merrill go back to talking about an extension and could get it done this off-season.
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