San Diego, CA - The San Diego Padres announced today that they have signed outfielder Jackson Merrill to a nine-year contract extension. The $135 million deal ensures that Merrill, a rising star in Major League Baseball, will remain with the Padres through the 2033 season.
Merrill, 23, quickly established himself as a cornerstone of the Padres' lineup after making his major league debut last year. His impressive performance earned him second place in the National League Rookie of the Year voting. He showcased a blend of speed, power, and defensive prowess that made him a valuable asset to the team.
"Jackson is an integral part of our team, and we are thrilled to have him with us for the long term," said Padres General Manager A.J. Preller. "His talent and dedication are evident, and we believe he will be a key contributor to our success for many years to come."
Merrill expressed his excitement about the extension, stating, "I'm incredibly grateful to the Padres organization for believing in me. I love playing in San Diego, and I'm committed to helping this team win a championship."
The contract extension includes a full no trade clause and performance based incentives. With Merrill locked in, the Padres look to build around their young core, hoping to contend for a World Series title in the coming years. The team will hold a press conference tomorrow to formally introduce the contract extension with Merrill and answer questions from the media.
Padres Extend Jackson Merrill's Contract for 9 Years
The San Diego Padres have secured star outfielder Jackson Merrill with a nine-year contract extension. The deal, worth $135 million, keeps Merrill in San Diego for the long term. Merrill, who finished second in the National League Rookie of the Year voting last season, is a key player for the Padres' future. This extension demonstrates the team's commitment to building a competitive roster around young talent.