Padres Rookie 'Earned His Way On The Plane' to Korea, Manager Says

This rookie is headed to the Seoul Series.

The ascension of San Diego Padres' rookie Jackson Merrill continues. Merrill has passed seemingly every test with the Padres this offseason, and now will hit his next milestone as he heads to South Korea for the Seoul Series with his team.

When asked by reporters about Merrill, Padres manager Mike Shildt confirmed that Merrill has 'earned' his spot on the Padres' trip to Korea. 

"He's earned his way on the plane, he's earned what's coming after the plane. He's done a great job and couldn't be happier for him. Clearly he bats well, play good defense, ran the bases well, plays with a lot of heart, energy and passion."

— Mike Shildt, via 97.3 The Fan.

Despite making the transition from shortstop to the outfield to help the Padres fill a need after the team traded Juan Soto and Trent Grishman in the offseason, Merrill has managed it well and is expected to emerge even more for the Padres this year.

Shildt wouldn't comment on Merrill's status on the active roster or in the potential Opening Day lineup, but it's a great sign that he's joining the team in Korea.

If Merrill does get the start in Korea, it won't just be impressive, but Merrill would be making history. With Merrill still just 20 years old, he would become only the third player in the last 50 years to start at center field before turning 21. The only other two players to do so are Ken Griffey Jr. and Andruw Jones.

Shildt hasn't officially named Merrill the everyday starter for the position, but the fact that he's even in consideration is a testament to his talent and how well he's progressed through his young career.