Official MLB awards announcement

Jackson Merrill's Walk-Off Homer Seals 3-2 Win, Series Split for Padres

Aug 25, 2024, 11:05 PM

Jackson Merrill, a 21-year-old rookie for the San Diego Padres, hit a walk-off home run to secure a 3-2 victory over the New York Mets, resulting in a series split. This marks his second walk-off homer of the season. Merrill's performance has been remarkable, with a 1.202 OPS in the ninth inning, and he has hit five game-tying or go-ahead home runs in the ninth inning or later this season, surpassing Mel Ott's record from 1929. Merrill is currently favored to win the National League Rookie of the Year award, with odds at -150. His clutch performances have been a significant factor in the Padres' success, and he is widely regarded as one of the best rookie position players this season.