Why Jackson Merrill should be the NL Rookie of the Year, not Paul Skenes

On a day that seemed tailor-made for those following the Rookie of the Year race closely, Jackson Merrill put on a display of talent that encapsulates why his name should be in the conversation. While many look to Paul Skenes as the next big star because of his blazing pitch velocity, Merrill proved Sunday that baseball is about much more than marketing, and that true greatness lies in the ability to impact the game in multiple ways.

Merrill steps up for the Padres at key moments

In Sunday’s matchup, Merrill not only delivered, he shined in the spotlight. With his team at a crucial point in the season, facing the Rockies, Merrill became the lynchpin of the Padres’ offense. He hit a home run in the sixth inning that sparked his team, a blow that recalled the power of legends like Frank Robinson.

But he didn’t stop there. In the ninth inning, with the score tied and the game in the balance, Merrill took center stage again. With the composure of a veteran, he hit his second home run of the game, a walk-off that left the Mets on the field and sent the Padres to a 3-2 victory.

These types of performances are the ones that define careers, and they are precisely why Merrill should be considered Rookie of the Year. While Paul Skenes and Shota Imanaga have both enjoyed standout seasons, neither has demonstrated Merrill’s ability to be decisive in the biggest moments. Merrill has made it clear that he is not only a timely hitter, but also a complete player who contributes on both offense and defense, and who has a natural instinct to shine under pressure.

What sets Merrill apart is his ability to impact the game in every facet. His 3.7 WAR reflects his overall contribution, but it’s in critical moments where he truly shines. With a .333 batting average in closeout and final situations and five game-winning ninth-inning home runs, Merrill has proven he not only has talent, but a winning mentality as well.

Throughout the season, Merrill has been a constant for the Padres, appearing in 127 of the team’s 132 games. His .288 batting average, along with 19 home runs, six triples, and 21 doubles, makes him a threat at the plate every time he takes an at-bat. But his value goes beyond statistics. He’s driven in runs at key moments, secured wins for his team, and has been a defensive force in the outfield, with his range and accuracy on the pitch preventing multiple runs.

Clutch hitter

Merrill’s performance on Sunday was not only an example of his ability to be decisive, but also underscored why he should be the Rookie of the Year.

While Skenes has been dominant in his 17 starts, his impact is limited by the number of games he can directly influence. Merrill, on the other hand, has been a consistent and decisive presence for the Padres, proving his value in every aspect of the game.

The baseball season is a marathon, and Merrill has proven that he has the stamina, skill and mindset to excel in it. His combination of offensive and defensive talent and his ability to shine in decisive moments make him the ideal candidate for the Rookie of the Year award.

In a sport where the narrative often focuses on speed and power, Merrill has proven that true greatness lies in the ability to impact the game in a holistic way.