What It Means:

Shildt didn't announce Merrill as a starter, but the Padres plan on adding him to the 40-man roster for the beginning of the season. “He’s earned his way on the plane,” Shildt said. “He’s earned what’s coming after the plane.” The 20-year-old went 1-for-3 and homered for the second game in a row on Tuesday in Cactus League play.

Merrill went 12-for-35 (.343) with 2 homers, 3 doubles, 6 RBI, 1 steal, and 7 runs scored in Cactus League play. He also drew 3 walks and had 3 strikeouts, while posting a .995 OPS over 38 plate appearances.