Padres sign star outfielder Jackson Merrill to 9-year contract extension

Merrill's nine-year contract runs from 2026-2034. He gets salaries of $1 million in 2026, $6 million in 2027, $8 million in 2028, $10 million in 2029 and $20 million annually from 2030-34, according to The Associated Press.

San Diego has a $21 million option for 2034 that will become a player option at the same salary if he finishes among the top five in MVP voting in any season from 2026-34, the AP reported.

Merrill would have been eligible for arbitration after the 2026 season and for free agency after the 2029 World Series.

In addition to the salary, Merrill will get a hotel suite on team road trips. 

Last season, Merrill played in 156 games and hit .292 with 24 home runs, 90 RBIs and 16 stolen bases while playing strong defense in center field. In seven postseason games, Merrill hit .250 with one home run and five RBIs.

Merrill began his 2025 campaign swinging a hot bat and has hit .400 with one home run and six RBIs, helping to power the Padres to a 6-0 start.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.