PROSPECT: Jackson Merrill, SS, San Diego Padres
ANALYSIS: Another member of the elite 2021 prep shortstop class, Jackson Merrill was selected 27th overall by the Padres out of high school in Maryland. He showed well in his pro debut and received rave reviews at Fall Instructs coming into his first full season.
Injuries prevented a full 2022 season for Merrill. But when he was on the field, he was incredible, slashing .339/.395/.511 with 23 extra-base hits and 11 steals in 55 games. The Padres pushed the teenager to the Arizona Fall League; while his numbers weren't amazing, he didn't back down. The move to High-A this season has continued to show Merrill's athleticism as he has 10 homers and 10 steals. But he's also dropped his walk rate to 5.7%.
VERDICT: Merrill should be owned in all dynasty leagues; however, with the way the Padres work, it would not surprise if his major league debut is made with another organization. Keep that in mind if you're acquiring him.
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