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Jackson Merrill proves doubters wrong that his sophomore slump was a fluke

The “sophomore slump” label didn’t stick for Merrill, who has emerged as one of San Diego’s most reliable bats in their playoff chase.
ByWill Lockwood|
Sep 16, 2025; New York City, New York, USA; San Diego Padres center fielder Jackson Merrill (3) hits a solo home run during the second inning against the New York Mets at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Sep 16, 2025; New York City, New York, USA; San Diego Padres center fielder Jackson Merrill (3) hits a solo home run during the second inning against the New York Mets at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images | Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

Jackson Merrill had himself a rookie season for the ages, one that was well deserving of a curtain call. The then 21-year-old slashed .292/.326/.500 and tallied an OPS of .826 with a 130 wRC+. Merrill eclipsed 20 home runs while recording 90 RBIs, he found himself in uncharted waters in Padres history.

He finished second in NL Rookie of the Year voting behind arguably the league’s best starting pitcher in Paul Skenes, and ninth in NL MVP voting. On top of that, he notched his first All-Star selection while taking home the Silver Slugger award.

Jackson Merrill showing Padres fans his sophomore struggles were no setback

Merrill’s incredibly productive rookie season got Padres fans excited, more amped than ever before, as they couldn’t wait for an encore in 2025. And it looked as if he was picking up right where he left off, as he was batting .378 with three home runs in the first ten games.

But just as it looked like we were going to see an MVP caliber season, Merrill hit the injured-list with a hamstring strain. He missed a month’s time, and when he returned in May, it was clear he was not the same. From his return from his first of what would be three IL stints in 2025, Merrill’s slugging percentage took a massive hit compared to his rookie year, down more than 100 points.

However, if you look at his numbers from the trade deadline and on, Merrill has turned back the clock to his old form. He has slugged .561 posted an OPS of .865, and just looked like a much more disciplined hitter. He has kept this San Diego team afloat in the NL West race against the L.A.. Dodgers.

While they do still have a shot at the division, it is much more likely that the Padres have to face the Cubs in the Wild Card…in Chicago. But with the way Merrill has played in the finishing stretch of the season, he could be the x-factor that this team desperately needs.

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