Padres Announce Jackson Merrill News After Leaving Dodgers Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Aug 17, 2025 8:16 PM ET

The San Diego Padres have put together a strong second half that has put the NL West within reach, currently owning a 69–54 record and sitting just one game back of the division lead behind the Los Angeles Dodgers entering Sunday.

The Padres’ offense has been disappointing despite picking up key positional pieces at the trade deadline. Notably, breakout star Jackson Merrill has experienced a down season after an impressive rookie campaign that saw him finish second in NL Rookie of the Year voting behind Paul Skenes, while also earning a Silver Slugger Award and an All-Star selection.

The 22-year-old originally played in the infield but transitioned to center field ahead of his first MLB season, where he played incredibly well while also posting a .292 batting average, .826 OPS, 24 home runs, and 90 RBIs.

Merrill’s numbers are down in his second year, however, batting .262 with a .734 OPS and just nine home runs in 90 games.

Jackson Merrill Injury Update

During Sunday’s game against the Dodgers, Merrill exited early in the bottom of the fourth inning, with Gavin Sheets replacing him in the lineup and moving to left field, while Ramon Laureano shifted to center.

Merrill had previously injured his left ankle during Friday’s game against Los Angeles, and manager Mike Shildt confirmed that was the reason for his early exit, adding that he expects it to be a day-to-day issue.

"Shildt said Merrill has been dealing with 'an ankle that's been bothering him.' Said it's sore, but doesn't think it will linger beyond a 'day-to-day type of thing.' #Padres," wrote Annie Heilbrunn of the San Diego Sports Association.

Shildt said Merrill has been dealing with "an ankle that's been bothering him." Said it's sore, but doesn't think it will linger beyond a "day-to-day type of thing." #Padres
— Annie Heilbrunn (@annieheilbrunn) August 17, 2025

Merrill Important Piece of San Diego's Future

Merrill signed a nine-year contract extension worth $135 million before the 2025 season, securing his place in San Diego’s long-term plans. His health will be the biggest concern moving forward as the team pushes for back-to-back postseason appearances. Merrill had a .250 batting average with six hits, a home run, and five RBIs in seven games during the 2024 postseason.

If Merrill is to miss extended time, Laureano would likely continue to fill the void in center field, with Sheets stepping in as the team’s primary left-handed power threat. Sheets has shown flashes of pop in limited opportunities, and Laureano’s defensive versatility gives the Padres some flexibility in the outfield alignment.

As San Diego continues its playoff push, Merrill’s recovery will be closely monitored. The Padres have leaned heavily on their pitching and defense to stay afloat in the division race, and losing one of their most dynamic young players could test their depth down the stretch.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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