Jackson Merrill Achieves Remarkable Padres Record in His Rookie Season
Following the San Diego Padres’ 5-0 win against the San Francisco Giants, the spotlight is on rookie center fielder Jackson Merrill, who made history by setting a new franchise record for most extra-base hits in a rookie season. Merrill, who hit two doubles off Giants pitcher Logan Webb, now holds 54 extra-base hits, surpassing Nate Colbert and Benito Santiago, according to AJ Cassavell of MLB.com.
In 1969, Colbert recorded 53 extra-base hits with 20 doubles, nine triples, and 24 home runs, eventually becoming a three-time All-Star and a San Diego Padres Hall of Fame member. Santiago tied Colbert’s record in 1987 with 33 doubles, two triples, and 18 home runs, winning the National League Rookie of the Year and several other accolades.
Merrill, in his rookie season, has tallied 27 doubles, six triples, and 23 home runs with 13 games left to play. His .290 batting average, 16 stolen bases, and 85 RBIs have made him a frontrunner for NL Rookie of the Year, narrowly ahead of Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes.
In addition to his record-breaking extra-base hits, Merrill also holds the Padres’ rookie record for most RBIs and is on track to potentially break more franchise records, including most hits, runs, and home runs.
Merrill’s achievement comes shortly after Manny Machado broke Colbert’s record for most career home runs with the Padres, marking a season filled with significant milestones for the team.
