Padres’ Jackson Merrill Hits 10-Day Injured List: What It Means for the Team

The San Diego Padres have placed outfielder Jackson Merrill on the 10-day injured list due to a left ankle sprain. This decision is retroactive to August 20. Merrill hasn’t played since August 17, as his ankle has kept him off the field.

At just 22 years old, Merrill’s second season has been challenging. He’s managed only 91 games this year after struggling with a hamstring strain earlier in the season and concussion-like symptoms in June. Even when healthy, he hasn’t performed like he did in his rookie year, where he showcased impressive stats: a .292 batting average, 24 home runs, and 16 stolen bases.

In his breakout rookie season, Merrill finished second in the National League Rookie of the Year voting and earned an All-Star appearance and a Silver Slugger award. He even placed ninth in the NL MVP race. Those achievements raised hopes for his future as a key player for the Padres, especially after signing a nine-year extension earlier this year. However, his current performance shows a dip, with a batting line of .261/.317/.413 this season.

This decline is significant for the Padres, who are in a tight NL West race with the Dodgers. A healthy Merrill could change the game for the team. His expected weighted on-base average (xwOBA) of .357 indicates potential that aligns with stars like Alex Bregman and Byron Buxton. The decision to rest him now may help him regain his form for the crucial September stretch.

In Merrill’s absence, Ramon Laureano has taken over center field. This shift has also allowed Gavin Sheets to play an outfield corner, while Ryan O’Hearn fills in at first base and designated hitter alongside Luis Arraez. The recent additions of Laureano and O’Hearn have strengthened the lineup, making the team more equipped to cope without Merrill.

As the Padres prepare for tomorrow’s roster move, they might look to bring up an infielder like Mason McCoy or Will Wagner, especially since Xander Bogaerts and Jake Cronenworth have also faced injuries. Strengthening the bench could provide needed depth as they push for the playoffs.

Overall, while Merrill’s injury is a setback, the Padres have options and depth to keep their playoff hopes alive. As they navigate the rest of the season, fans will be watching closely to see how both Merrill’s recovery and the team’s adjustments unfold. For more details about player injuries and team strategies, check out ESPN.

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