Padres' Jackson Merrill Placed on 10-Day IL Due to Hamstring Strain

San Diego Padres center fielder Jackson Merrill has been placed on the 10-day injured list due to a right hamstring strain, which comes just a week after he signed a $135 million extension. Merrill had a strong start to the 2025 season, batting .378 with three home runs and 10 RBIs in his first 10 games. In response to his injury, the Padres have recalled outfielder Oscar Gonzalez from Triple-A El Paso to fill his roster spot, while rookie Brandon Lockridge is expected to take over center field duties. The team is optimistic that Merrill's absence will not be lengthy, allowing him to recover fully. The Padres are currently leading the league with a 9-2 record as they navigate this setback. Merrill's impressive rookie season last year had seen him finish second in NL Rookie of the Year voting, showcasing his potential as a rising star in Major League Baseball.