Padres Outfielder Jackson Merrill Inks Extension

The 22-year-old outfielder signs a 9-year, $135 million deal with the San Diego Padres.

Published on Feb. 4, 2026

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The San Diego Padres have signed outfielder Jackson Merrill to a 9-year, $135 million contract extension. Merrill, a 2021 first-round draft pick, had a breakout 2024 season, making the All-Star team and finishing second in NL Rookie of the Year voting. However, his 2025 campaign was hampered by injuries, with Merrill landing on the injured list three times. Despite the setbacks, the Padres believe Merrill will be a key part of their talented outfield alongside Ramón Laureano and Fernando Tatis Jr.

Why it matters

Merrill's extension is a significant investment by the Padres in one of their top young talents. At just 22 years old, Merrill has shown immense potential, and the Padres are betting on him to be a cornerstone of their franchise for years to come. The deal also reflects the team's confidence in Merrill's ability to bounce back from his injury-plagued 2025 season.

The details

Merrill's contract includes a $10 million signing bonus, with the first $1 million paid last year. He will make $4 million in 2026, with his salary increasing to $9 million in 2027, $11 million in 2028, and $10 million in 2029. From 2030 through 2034, Merrill will earn $20 million annually. The deal also includes a $21 million club option for 2035 that would become a $30 million player option if Merrill finishes in the top-five in MVP voting in any year of the contract.

  • Merrill signed the extension in April 2025.

The players

Jackson Merrill

A 22-year-old outfielder for the San Diego Padres, who was a first-round draft pick in 2021 and had a breakout 2024 season before dealing with injuries in 2025.

Ramón Laureano

The Padres' starting left fielder, who will form a talented outfield trio with Merrill and Fernando Tatis Jr.

Fernando Tatis Jr.

The Padres' starting right fielder, who will join Merrill and Laureano in the team's outfield.

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What’s next

The Padres will be hoping Merrill can stay healthy in 2026 and build on his strong finish to the 2025 season.

The takeaway

The Padres' investment in Merrill reflects their belief that he can be a cornerstone of their franchise for years to come. If he can stay healthy and continue to develop, the 22-year-old outfielder could become one of the best young players in baseball.