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League: MLBSport: BaseballCountry: United StatesCategory: Scores & Results

Jackson Merrill struggles highlight Padres' management issues in 2026 season

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 4, 2026, 2:00 PM

Last updated Jul 4, 2026

Jackson Merrill struggles highlight Padres' management issues in 2026 season
Summary

San Diego Padres centerfielder Jackson Merrill is experiencing a significant decline at the plate during the 2026 season. His batting average has fallen 81 points since his rookie season in 2024, attributed to changes made by hitting coach Steven Souza Jr. Merrill has shown poor pitch recognition, with a chase rate of 34.2% and a strikeout rate of 24.9%. While his defense remains strong, concerns mount about the impact of coaching decisions on his performance. The team’s management is under scrutiny for their handling of Merrill’s development and the effectiveness of the coaching staff as July progresses.

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Yahoo Sports
By the Numbers
  • •Merrill's batting average has dropped significantly since 2024.
  • •The new hitting coach's strategy may have negatively impacted Merrill's swing.
  • •Merrill struggles with pitch recognition and chases too many bad pitches.
  • •The Padres have not considered moving Merrill down in the batting order.
  • •Merrill continues to excel defensively despite his hitting struggles.
Latest Updates
  • 2:00 PMYahoo Sports — The decline of Jackson Merrill is an indictment of Padres mismanagement
What they're saying
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The young centerfielder's struggles have been incredibly depressing to watch.

Related Teams & Leagues
San Diego PadresMLBBaseball

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