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Padres Sign Jackson Merrill to Massive 9-Year Contract Extension

Originally posted on Athlon Sports
By Anthony Kazmierczak | Last updated Apr 2, 2025 10:18 AM ET

The San Diego Padres are reportedly in agreement with rising superstar Jackson Merrill on a massive contract extension.

MLB insider Robert Murray reported Wednesday morning that the Padres inked Merrill, the 2021 No. 27 pick, to a nine-year deal worth $135 million.

Merrill's new contract includes a $30 million club option for a 10th season. According to ESPN, the team option becomes a player option if Merrill has a top-five finish in MVP voting at any point.

The Padres had not confirmed the extension as of publication.

Merrill, who turns 22 on April 19, thrived as a rookie. He slashed .292/.326/.500 with 24 home runs and 90 RBI across 156 games for the Padres.

Merrill finished second in NL Rookie of the Year voting to Pittsburgh Pirates flamethrower Paul Skenes. The All-Star outfielder tallied 4.4 bWAR and won a Silver Slugger.

The Padres ideally got a glimpse of potential October magic. Merrill it .250 with a homer, five RBI, and a .833 OPS over seven playoff games.

Merrill hasn't shown any signs of a sophomore slump. He entered play Wednesday hitting .400 with a home run, six RBI, and a stellar 1.035 OPS in six games.

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

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