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Trio of Padres Stars Win Silver Slugger Award

For just the second time in franchise history, the San Diego Padres have claimed three Silver Slugger Awards in one season. San Diego first achieved this feat in 2022 when midseason acquisitions Juan Soto, Josh Bell, and Brandon Drury took home the honors. Despite a tough end to the year against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the National League Division Series, the 2024 Padres had plenty to celebrate. They clinched their first 90-win season since 2010, igniting excitement with a late push for the National League West. Anchored by a dynamic offense, three of their star players were rewarded for standout performances in 2024.

Trio of Padres Stars Win Silver Slugger Award

Manny Machado

Superstar Manny Machado captured his second Silver Slugger Award and his first since 2020. One of the game’s premier third basemen, Machado once again showcased his talent and consistency. This season, he made a strong case as the Padres’ MVP, posting a solid .275/.325/.472 line with 29 homers, 105 RBI, and a .797 OPS (120 OPS+). While he just missed a third straight 30-home run season, Machado continues to justify his hefty contract extension, proving he’s still the cornerstone of San Diego’s lineup.

Jurickson Profar

In one of the league’s best comeback stories, Jurickson Profar emerged as a crucial piece of the Padres’ lineup and one of their most clutch hitters. Profar, now a free agent, enjoyed a career-best season in his second stint with San Diego, earning his first All-Star nod at age 30. He delivered with a .280/.380/.459 slash line, along with 24 home runs, 85 RBI, and an .839 OPS (134 OPS+). Capping off this stellar season, Profar now has his first Silver Slugger, underscoring his remarkable growth and invaluable contributions.

Jackson Merrill

Rookie sensation Jackson Merrill burst onto the scene with a memorable debut season, proving himself as a budding superstar. Merrill slashed .292/.326/.500, racking up 24 homers, 90 RBI, and an impressive .826 OPS (127 OPS+). Recently named a finalist for NL Rookie of the Year alongside Paul Skenes and Jackson Chourio, Merrill joins an elite club as only the fifth rookie outfielder to earn a Silver Slugger and the youngest since Mike Trout in 2012. For Padres fans, Merrill’s Silver Slugger is just a preview of the bright future he promises to bring to San Diego.

Even if Profar leaves in free agency, Machado and Merrill will continue to anchor the lineup along with Fernando Tatis Jr. The team will seek to replicate its 2024 success, and if their sluggers continue to shine, they will be able to do so for years to come.

 

Photo Credit: © Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Drew Arellano

Drew Arellano

Drew is a San Diego-based writer and screenwriter with a deep passion for baseball, football, and movies. He is also a lifelong Padres fan.

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