San Diego Padres Outfielder Jackson Merrill was rewarded for his incredible rookie season With the first of what could be many awards on Thursday.

The Sporting News named Merrill the 2024 National League Rookie of the Year.

Merrill transitioned from shortstop to center field during spring training; This was a significant position change for the 21-year-old, who had yet to make his Major League Baseball debut. Despite the difficulties, he adapted quickly.

“It looked right” said Padres manager Mike Shildt.. “There were some internal discussions about it. There was still something to compete for. But it was pretty clear that he was going to be our midfielder.”

After just six months, Merrill was not only successful in his new role, but also became one of the league’s best players and was recognized as the National League’s best rookie.

Merrill delivered the best rookie season in Padres history, leading all rookies in multiple categories in 2024, including hits, RBIs, batting average, slugging percentage and OPS. He also tied for the top spot with 24 home runs. He had a knack for clutch moments, hitting a game-tying or go-ahead home run in the ninth inning or five later, helping the Padres return to the playoffs after missing out in 2023.

After spending 2023 in High-A and Double-A, Merrill earned a spot in the Padres’ starting lineup in April 2024 and remained there for the remainder of the season.

Far exceeding his $740,000 salary, Merrill played a key role in ensuring the Padres remained competitive with big-market rivals like the Dodgers and Mets; both had player payrolls nearly twice that of San Diego.

According to projections from FanGraphs and Baseball-Reference.com, Merrill’s stellar performance in 2024 will be worth between $34 million and $42.3 million on the free agent market. While he won’t hit free agency until the 2029-30 season, these numbers give an idea of ​​his potential future market value.

Merrill hit .292 with 31 doubles as a rookie; five homers went to opposite field, 12 went beyond center field and eight went beyond right field.

The outfielder has consistently impressed his teammates with his skill and maturity.

“This guy” Xander Bogaerts saidin borderline awe. “I played in the World Series at that age. But this guy was way better than me at that age.”

No one on the Padres was surprised by Merrill’s postseason success. In fact, they believe the postseason is where they meet Merrill.

More news: Padres Already Had Extension Talks with Standout Rookie Jackson Merrill