Jackson Merrill continues to have a solid rookie season. After a spectacular performance, the San Diego Padres outfielder was named the National League Rookie of the Month for June.
Merrill hit.320/.346/.650 in June, totaling 33 hits, 17 runs, nine home runs, and 20 RBI. He concluded the month strong, with back-to-back three-hit outings in the last two games of June. Merrill topped all rookies in hits, home runs, slugging percentage, and batting average throughout the month, firmly establishing himself as one of the game’s best rookies.
Among other highlights, Merrill’s nine home runs tied the Padres rookie record for most home runs in a month. He also achieved a few of other milestones, including his first walk-off home run and multi-home run game.
June belonged to Action Jackson 😤 pic.twitter.com/b6zSQqKYJ8
— San Diego Padres (@Padres) July 3, 2024
Merrill continues to make a strong case for National League Rookie of the Year. He started the year creating history by becoming the fourth player to start in center field before turning 21 since 1969. Now, his data are supporting his case as well.
Merrill has been slicing throughout the season.291/.325/.459 with 85 hits, 39 runs, 12 homers, and 42 RBI. According to DraftKings SportsBook, his odds of winning the NL ROY title are presently +350. However, it will be difficult to beat the favorite for the award, Pittsburgh Pirates rookie pitcher Paul Skenes, who was the first overall pick in the 2023 MLB Draft and has an impressive 2.06 ERA thus far.
Leave a Reply