The Padres locked up their 21-year-old outfielder on Wednesday to a nine-year extension that signals they’re here to stay as a National League contender.

All-Star center fielder Jackson Merrill, from Severna Park, Maryland, started paying immediate dividends on the $135 million, nine-year contract he and the San Diego Padres finalized on Wednesday morning.

The San Diego Padres and All-Star outfielder Jackson Merrill agreed to a nine-year, $135 million contract extension, a source familiar with the agreement told UPI on Wednesday.

Off to the best start in franchise history, the Padres finalized a nine-year contract extension with Jackson Merrill on Wednesday morning. Before they even took the field, it was a storybook opening homestand.

Michael King struck out 11 in five innings and Jackson Merrill homered for the San Diego Padres, who started 6-0 for the first time in their 57-season history by beating the Cleveland Guardians 7-0

Michael King fanned 11 over five shutout innings Tuesday night and Jackson Merrill homered as the San Diego Padres extended the best start to a season in franchise history with a 7-0 win over the visiting Cleveland Guardians.