Padres and Star Outfielder Agree to Massive Contract Extension
The San Diego Padres have continued to shine to start the 2025 season, improving to 6-0 following their dominant 7-0 shutout victory over the Cleveland Guardians on Tuesday night. The win was highlighted by last year’s NL Rookie of the Year runner-up, Jackson Merrill, who recorded his first home run of the season. Merrill, who burst onto the scene with a stellar rookie campaign in 2024, enters this year looking to build upon his impressive MLB debut. As the Padres ride their early momentum in 2025, the franchise made headlines off the field this morning, as San Diego and Merrill agreed to a massive nine-year contract extension for their superstar outfielder, according to MLB Insider Robert Murray. The deal is worth $135 million, with the potential to reach up to $204 million, and includes a 10th-year, $30 million team option that could convert into a player option.
Merrill’s rise to start his MLB career has been nothing short of remarkable. Drafted by the Padres in the first round of the 2021 MLB Draft with the 27th overall pick, the 21-year-old spent his first three seasons in the Minor Leagues before making his MLB debut in 2024, earning a spot on San Diego’s Opening Day roster ahead of their Seoul Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers. His rookie season was historic for the franchise, as Merrill became the first Padres rookie ever to be named to the MLB All-Star Game. In 2024, he finished his debut season with an impressive .292 batting average, 24 home runs, and 90 RBIs across 156 games. His accolades included an All-MLB Second Team selection, a Silver Slugger Award, and a second-place finish in NL Rookie of the Year voting behind Pirates star pitcher Paul Skenes.
Looking ahead, Merrill is expected to be a cornerstone of the Padres’ lineup as they aim for their first World Series appearance since 1998. His offensive prowess will be crucial not only this season but also for years to come as San Diego seeks to establish itself among MLB’s elite teams. With Merrill locked up for the long haul, he is expected to remain a formidable threat against baseball’s top competition. Meanwhile, also playing a key role in maintaining the Padres’ long-term success.
