NO PANIC: Why Padres’ Jackson Merrill Will SHINE in 2026 and Silence Sophomore Slump Talk

Jackson Merrill shakes off the sophomore slump as the San Diego Padres eye a breakout 2026 season. Can Merrill and Fernando Tatis Jr. form MLB’s most electrifying outfield duo? Javier Reyes highlights Merrill’s resilience, powerful late-season surge, and defensive prowess, making the case for why the young center fielder remains a cornerstone for the Padres’ future.

Other topics in this player preview include Merrill’s improved walk rate, struggles against left-handed pitching, and ongoing lineup questions as rookie manager Craig Stammen weighs his options. With questions swirling around lineup construction and Merrill’s long-term ceiling, Padres fans won’t want to miss this essential look at one of baseball’s brightest wonderkids. Go Padres.

00:00 — Intro

1:08 — Jackson Merrill 2026 Preview

08:41 — Analyzing the Sophomore Slump

19:47 — 2026 Questions & Expectations

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