Jackson Merrill shows off insane exit velocity as Padres All-Star kicks off offseason training

Following a stellar 2024 season for the San Diego Padres, rookie All-Star Jackson Merrill has already started preparing for next season with spring training still a couple of months away.

Jackson Merrill arguably had one of the most impactful seasons by a rookie in Padres history. He had several clutch performances in the team's run through to the National League Division Series.

Merrill shared clips of his offseason training as he practiced his hitting, showing off his insane exit velocity. He shared the clips on his Instagram story.

(Image source - Jackson Merrill IG)

Jackson Merrill was one of the three finalists, along with Paul Skenes and Jackson Chourio, for the NL Rookie of the Year award. Merrill led all MLB rookies in batting average, RBI, hits and extra base hits in 2024. He also had the most home runs by a rookie, 24, tied with Baltimore Orioles' Colton Cowser. He also earned an All-Star nod in his rookie season.

Despite his offensive brilliance, Merrill came second to Paul Skenes in the votings. Skenes received 23 first-place votes, compared to the Padres rookie's seven. He was later named Padres' Rookie of the Year.

Padres manager Mike Shildt has a decision to make on Jackson Merrill's position for next season

While Jackson Merrill's offensive numbers were the highlight of his rookie season, the 21-year-old was solid in defense too, transitioning from shortstop to outfield to help fill the void for the team.

However, Padres manager Mike Shildt has a decision to make ahead of next season as he has several options at shortstop.

"Almost all of them want to play shortstop still," Shildt said in an appearance on "Foul Territory" on Monday. "We'll figure out who it actually is, and there may be somebody outside the organization. Still, we're not sure. We're having these conversations internally with our group to figure out who it is on the roster and who it is outside the roster.

"Tatis Jr. likes to get his ground balls over there," he added. "I think Merrill is pretty comfortable in center, but he'll take his ground balls. I don't think Manny wants any part of it anymore, but [Jake Cronenworth] is always like, 'I got it.'"

It'll be interesting to see how the team accommodates Jackson Merrill for next season. However, Padres fans won't want a change, especially after Merrill's impact from the outfield.