Padres' Jackson Merrill Already Confident in his Outfield Transition
San Diego Padres' Jackson Merrill is making the transition from shortstop to the outfield this season. So far, so good.
In Wednesday's 6-2 loss to the Cincinnati Reds, Merrill had the opportunity to make some plays from the outfield, including an impressive throw home to get a runner out on an outfield assists.
He discussed this play after the game.
"Honestly, I haven't been waiting for (an opportunity to throw out a runner at home plate) because I don't want them to get hits or anything, honestly. It was cool to finally get one, show that I can actually do it. Doing it in a game is way more comfortable. I know I can do it now. I know I can range to my right and left, get those, throw people out.
— Jackson Merrill, via 97.3 The Fan.
The other positive for Merrill is he can seek advice from one of his teammates who also made the same move, Fernando Tatis Jr.
After the Padres signed shortstop Xander Bogaerts for the 2023 season, Tatis moved from shortstop to right field. Tatis did so successfully, winning the Gold Glove and Platinum Glove award for his efforts.
Merrill opened up on some of the tips he's gotten from Tatis as he's made the transition.
“Just small stuff. He’s just given me small pointers here and there to help me along the way. Help me with how to get more power behind a throw, stay low in your throw. All in all, he’s just helping me here and there. He’s not trying to control what I do in the outfield. He wants to see what I can do and work off that with me.”
— Jackson Merrill, via 97.3 The Fan.
The 20-year-old Merrill seems to be confident in how the transition has gone, which is great news for the Padres heading into the 2024 season.
