Jackson Merrill Named 2024 NL Rookie of the Year

Jackson Merrill, the San Diego Padres' center fielder, has been named the 2024 NL Outstanding Rookie by the MLBPA and the Sporting News' NL Rookie of the Year. Over the course of the season, Merrill excelled with a batting average of .292, 24 home runs, 90 RBIs, and 16 stolen bases, leading all rookies in key statistical categories. His impressive performance has drawn praise from notable players including Chris Sale and Shohei Ohtani, with Sale predicting Merrill will become a significant challenge for pitchers in the coming years. Merrill, who made a successful transition from shortstop to center field, was instrumental in the Padres' return to the playoffs after a previous absence. The official BBWAA Rookie of the Year will be announced in mid-November, with Merrill considered a strong favorite over competitors such as Paul Skenes and Jackson Chourio. The Padres achieved a notable 93-69 record this season, highlighting their competitive resurgence in the league.