Padres' Jackson Merrill gets emotional sharing David Ortiz story from childhood
Padres' Jackson Merrill gets emotional sharing David Ortiz story from childhood (Image via Getty)
San Diego Padres young star Jackson Merrill is making headlines for more than just his strong play this season. While fans cheer for his skills on the field, Merrill recently shared something surprising about his childhood that involved baseball legend David Ortiz.
The story, told on a podcast, gave fans a new look at the player they watch today.
Jackson Merrill shares childhood story about David Ortiz that changed everything
On June 10, 2025, Jackson Merrill, who is in his second MLB season with the San Diego Padres, appeared on the OnBase Live podcast with Dodgers star Mookie Betts. While most of the talk was about the Padres-Dodgers rivalry, Merrill shared a moment from his childhood that surprised many listeners.
— brwalkoff (@brwalkoff)
Merrill, now 22, told the story of a day at the ballpark when he was just four years old.
During batting practice, David Ortiz hit a strong line drive into the stands. The ball came directly toward young Merrill, but his father quickly reached out and caught it, saving his son. Merrill said, 'I remember it so vividly coming right in my face.' That moment made a lasting impact and turned him into a Red Sox fan.
He added, 'So that kind of got me on his [Ortiz's] train.' Merrill also laughed while recalling how he once clapped for a home run in a Red Sox playoff game, not knowing what was going on, but feeling excited anyway.
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Kike Hernandez Leaves Fans Laughing With Unique Helmet During Dodgers Blowout Against Padres
Jackson Merrill's rise with Padres draws praise from coaches and teammates
After being drafted by the Padres, Jackson Merrill made his MLB debut in 2024 at just 20 years old. The team moved him from shortstop to centre field, and he handled the switch with ease.
He finished his rookie year hitting .292 with 24 home runs and 90 RBIs. He became the first rookie in Padres history to be selected for the All-Star Game and won a Silver Slugger award.
This year, Merrill is hitting .303 with an .822 OPS.
Padres manager Mike Shildt calls him 'a stud.' Teammates Manny Machado and Xander Bogaerts both say he's 'different.' Fernando Tatis Jr. said, 'He just can play ball… The guy is gonna help in every single area.'
Even Angels manager Ron Washington, who has been in pro baseball since 1977, praised Merrill: 'He does it all… He runs… hits… plays defence.'
From being a young Red Sox fan to becoming a Padres star, Jackson Merrill's journey has truly stood out.
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