Padres Lock Up Star Player Jackson Merrill with Lucrative Contract Extension

San Diego Padres star player Jackson Merrill agrees to a 9-year, $135 million contract extension, with a potential max value of $204 million.

San Diego Padres' star Jackson Merrill has agreed to a nine-year, $135 million contract extension that will keep him with the team until 2034. This deal is a significant commitment by the Padres, locking in one of their brightest young talents. Merrill, just 21 years old, was a National League Rookie of the Year finalist in the 2024 MLB season and has already proven himself to be a crucial part of the team.

The contract extension, first reported by Robert Murray of FanSided, has a maximum value of $204 million and includes a $30 million club option for a tenth year that can convert to a player option. This deal is a testament to the Padres' confidence in Merrill's abilities and their commitment to building a competitive team around him. Merrill's impressive rookie season, which included a .292 batting average, 24 home runs, and 90 RBIs, made him a key player to lock down.

Jackson Merrill and the Padres agree on a nine-year, $135M extension, per @ByRobertMurray. pic.twitter.com/XVay4E75jR

— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) April 2, 2025

Merrill's extension is the latest example of the Padres' strategy to invest in their young talent. The team has been aggressive in signing their top players to long-term deals, providing stability and security for both the team and the players. With Merrill locked in until 2034, the Padres can now focus on building around him and making a push for a World Series title.

As reported, “Jackson Merrill and the San Diego Padres are in agreement on a nine-year, $135 million contract extension, sources say.” This deal has the potential to max out at $204 million and includes a $30 million club option for a tenth season that can convert to a player option.

The contract extension was negotiated by Drew Hardee and Josh Knipp of KHG Sports. Merrill has been with the Padres since 2021, initially spending time in the minor leagues before making his MLB debut at the start of the 2023 campaign. His impressive performance earned him a spot in the All-Star Game that summer, a historic feat as he became the first rookie in the Padres' history to achieve this honor.

Merrill has solidified his position as one of the league's top players, and this contract extension is a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication. The deal is expected to keep Merrill with the Padres for the foreseeable future, much to the delight of the team's fans and management.