The San Diego Padres hit the jackpot by selecting Jackson Merrill. The Friars selected the young stud with the 27th overall pick in the 2021 MLB Draft, and Merrill only needed one season in the majors to prove himself. As a result, the outfielder was nominated in the top three for the National League Rookie of the Year Award.
In the latest edition of MLB Network’s MLB Now Top 10, analyst Chris Young had nothing but praise for the 21-year-old Padre, placing the latter No. 2 on his list of 2024 center fielders.
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“He was the most exciting center fielder in baseball last year, and that would even count Aaron Judge,” Carter said. (0:56-0:59)
Additionally, analyst Brian Kenny talked about how Jackson Merrill played shortstop throughout his career and made a smooth transition to center field when he reached the majors.
“Jackson Merrill had a great rookie season. He was a shortstop early in his career, but upon entering the big leagues he transitioned to an outfield role. He played in 156 games and hit .292, doing it all,” Kenny said. said. (0:03～)
Merrill fell just short of the top center field spot taken by Mariners All-Star Julio Rodriguez. Among the young Padre’s statistics are the impressive defensive numbers he has compiled.
The young cannon ranked in the top 10 of all center fielders in above-average outs and defensive run value. Additionally, he is within the 90th percentile for average arm strength, clocking in at 90.8 mph.
Jackson Merrill’s impressive rookie year stats
Brian Kenny and Chris Young also praised Jackson Merrill, stating that if he can continue the momentum he built last season, he could be among the top center fielders next year.
“If he can repeat his rookie year, he’ll be one of the best center fielders in the game,” Kenney said.
“If he can repeat what he did in 2024, he can definitely be in the top one. I believe in him,” Young suggested.
In 156 games played, Merrill batted .292/.326/.500 with an OPS of .826. Along with this, he recorded 24 home runs, 90 RBIs, and 16 stolen bases. That great season earned him selection as an All-Star, being named to the All-MLB Second Team, and winning the Silver Slugger Award.
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Edited by Ripanjay Gaba
