MLB insider claims "Jackson Merrill could hit in the way Chourio, Holliday couldn't," leaning toward Padres rookie to win NL ROY over Paul Skenes

The 2024 MLB season in the books but the fans are witnessing another exciting race in the offseason with San Diego Padres outfielder competing against Pittsburgh Pirates ace Paul Skenes for the National League Rookie of the Year title.

Jackson Merrill and Paul Skenes are two of the three finalists for the NL ROY accolade with Milwaukee Brewers outfielder Jackson Chourio being the other finalist. However, it's Skenes and Merrill who are seemingly in a two-horse race for the award.

MLB insider and senior journalist Joel Sherman gave his thoughts on the race on MLB network, leaning towards the Padres rookie for being more 'valuable' to the team despite Skenes being more 'dominant.'

He said:

"Jackson Merrill could hit, he could hit from the beginning. In the other way, in the way that more glorious Jacksons, Chourio and Holliday, couldn't. And he hit from the beginning. Paul Skenes was historic, he feels like the most dominant rookie. But Jackson Merrill in some ways feels like the most valuable rookie."

Manny Machado praises Padres rookie Jackson Merrill's clutch performances in 2024

The NY Post journalist cited Merrill's ability to adapt at the start of the season when the Padres had just two outfielders on their 40-man roster. The Padres rookie did not only shore up the defense in center field but was also the most clutch hitter in the league.

While Paul Skenes is undoubtedly been one of the best pitchers this season, Merrill tops all the rookies in hits, RBI, batting and slugging percentage. He also has the joint most home runs by a rookie this season, tied with Baltimore Orioles' Colton Cowser (24).

Padres All-Star Manny Machado acknowledged Jackson Merrill's clutch performances this season as the 21-year-old became the youngest player in MLB history to hit five or more game-tying or go-ahead homers after the eighth inning.

“What he's been doing is incredible, and his energy's always been top notch,” Manny Machado said. “We've put him in so many situations -- Korea, an All-Star Game, clutch moments.”

It expected to be a close battle for the prestigious award and if Jackson Merrill wins it, he will become the first Padres players to win the ROY award since Benito Santiago in 1987.