The San Diego Padres lock in Jackson Merrill to a major deal on Wednesday and he speaks on his loyalty to the Friars.

The San Diego Padres and star young center fielder Jackson Merrill have agreed to terms on a nine-year, $135 million contract extension, the team announced Wednesday. The pact includes a $30 million club option for a 10th season that can be converted into a player option,

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.