Jackson Merrill, a 21-year-old center fielder, has just made a big move. He has signed a nine-year contract with the Padres, worth $135 million. This deal kicks in from 2026 and runs until 2034, with a possible extension for 2035. The contract is unique because it has no opt-outs for Merrill. Instead, it includes a team option that could become a player option if Merrill finishes in the top five in MVP voting. This means the contract could be worth up to $204 million if Merrill meets certain performance milestones.

Merrill's deal is the second big contract the Padres have handed out since John Seidler took over as team chairman. The first was a four-year, $55 million contract for starting pitcher Nick Pivetta. With this new contract, the Padres have secured three layers of star players. Manny Machado and Xander Bogaerts are both 32 and signed through 2033. Fernando Tatis Jr. , at 26, is signed through 2034. Merrill, turning 22 on April 19, is the youngest of the bunch.

The Padres have a history of locking in young talent. In 2021, they signed Fernando Tatis Jr. to a 14-year, $340 million contract. Merrill's deal, while significant, is much smaller in comparison. This contract is team-friendly, reflecting Merrill's humble background. The son of two elementary school teachers, Merrill has always expressed his love for the Padres and his desire to play for them. He has said he feels whatever he signs for would be more than he could ever spend. This attitude has made him amenable to a long-term deal, allowing him to focus on playing the game he loves in the place he loves playing it.

Merrill's performance speaks for itself. In his first full season, he batted . 292 with an . 826 OPS. He was selected to the National League All-Star team and finished second in NL Rookie of the Year voting. His 5. 3 WAR was one of the highest by a rookie since 2000. Merrill's impact on the Padres has been significant. He has played a key role in their winning streak this season. He is the only Padres player with at least one hit in every game so far. His leadership on and off the field has been instrumental in the team's success.

Merrill's dedication to the game is evident in his daily routine. He is often the first player at Petco Park, sometimes arriving so early he waits in his car. He has been known to call coaches in the minor leagues to unlock the batting cages early. His work ethic and love for the game have made him a leader in the locker room. Pitcher Michael King has praised Merrill's energy and passion for the game, noting how it spreads throughout the team. Merrill's commitment to the Padres goes beyond the major leagues. He has shown interest in the team's minor league players, often watching them practice and working out with them. This dedication has not gone unnoticed by his teammates and coaches, who see him as a vital part of the team's future.

The Padres' Rising Star: Merrill's Big Deal

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