Jackson Merrill Debuts for Padres as Starting Center Fielder in Seoul Series

20-year-old prospect shines in major league debut, marking a strategic shift towards youth for San Diego.

Jackson Merrill, a 20-year-old outfielder, made his major league debut for the San Diego Padres against the Los Angeles Dodgers, showcasing the team's focus on young talent.
Merrill, previously a shortstop, was selected for the center field position, reflecting his versatility and the Padres' strategic shift towards utilizing young, promising players.
His performance in spring training, including a .351 batting average, solidified his position on the Opening Day roster, underscoring his rapid ascent in the Padres' ranks.
The Padres also called up infielder Graham Pauley, highlighting an organizational shift towards a greater reliance on youth.
Merrill's debut places him among a select group of players to start in center field on opening day before turning 21, joining the ranks of Ken Griffey Jr. and Andruw Jones.