Padres-Jackson Merrill extension gives Reds the perfect blueprint for their rising star

Extensions seem to be coming from all directions as the 2025 MLB season gets underway. Jackson Merrill’s nine-year, $135 million deal provided hope that smaller market teams, like the San Diego Padres, could retain young talent. The Reds need to take a cue and work to extend their core, starting with Matt McLain.

Of most note is that Merrill’s deal is team-friendly. It bears more in common with Ronald Acuña Jr.’s contract than Fernando Tatis Jr.’s $340 million megadeal. This deal now enables San Diego to build around Merrill, who finished ninth in MVP voting last season at just 21 years old. The Reds have an opportunity to do the same around McLain.

Jackson Merrill’s deal should signal the Reds’ front office to extend Matt McLain

Prior to the start of the season, Reds fans questioned whether the McLain who burst onto the scene as a rookie would be the same player returning from injury. Luckily his offensive outpouring over the first week of the season has put those doubts to bed. As of April 2, he has only stolen one base, but perhaps that’s due to his increased slugging. It’s impossible to steal if the ball leaves the ballpark.

Baseball tradition links strength up the middle with team success. The Padres are certainly buying into that idea, having signed Merrill, shortstop Xander Boegarts, and second baseman Jake Cronenworth through at least 2030. McLain, Elly De La Cruz, and Tyler Stephenson could follow a similar model.

Extending McLain, who slipped out of agent Scott Boras’s grasp this offseason, might also slightly improve their chances of retaining De La Cruz when the time comes. It’s no secret how fond the double play combo is of each other. That friendship may not be the biggest factor in De La Cruz’s decision when he becomes a free agent following the 2029 season, but it wouldn’t hurt.

Considering McLain’s history of injury, now would be a good time for both him and the Reds to come to the table. The 25-year-old knows how valuable his playing days are, and he may want to guarantee his future like Merrill did.

More Cincinnati Reds News and Rumors