Padres sign Jackson Merrill to a 9 year, $135 million deal

[Futuregm2]

https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2025/04/ ... rrill.html

“ The Padres are in agreement with star outfielder Jackson Merrill on a nine-year contract extension that guarantees the star $135MM, according to a report from Robert Murray of Fansided. The deal can max out at $204MM and includes a $30MM club option for a tenth season that can be converted to a player option. It starts in 2026, per Jon Heyman of The New York Post, meaning the guaranteed portion runs through 2034. Per Russell Dorsey of Yahoo, there’s a $10MM signing bonus and a $1MM bonus for every 500 plate appearances in the 2030 to 2035 seasons. Dorsey adds that the club option becomes a player option with a top five finish in MVP voting, while a top ten finish is also an escalator. The outfielder is represented by KHG Sports Management.”

[tony3425]

This more than likely will be an absolute steal for a player of his caliber. Smart move by the Padres!

[ramfandan]

Speaking of steal.. some wanted extension of Winn long term.
May get him on low ball offer right now.

[tony3425]

I don't think it'd be a terrible idea to get out ahead of Walker, or Winn. This Merril deal is a great template for that. Winn and Walker are 23, and 22 respectively, and if they received contracts similar to Merrill, IT would either be a steal, right on par for the level their level of play, or end up being a poor contract, but if it goes that route, it won't be detrimental to the team at all.

[82birds]

good for him

that'll pay the groceries and utility bills