Padres' Comeback Win Fueled by Merrill's Heroics: Utah Baseball Fans Take Note

**Why it matters locally:** While this is a national story about a Padres-Mariners game, Utah residents, particularly baseball fans and those with ties to the Padres organization or its players, might find it mildly interesting. Any Utah residents who generally follow baseball might be interested in important games and rookie sensations. Additionally the game may be broadcast on channels that Utah residents receive. --- SAN DIEGO – Jackson Merrill contributed both defensively and offensively Wednesday as the San Diego Padres completed a ninth-inning comeback to defeat the Seattle Mariners 7-6. The Padres entered the bottom of the ninth inning trailing 6-2. Andrés Muñoz, Seattle's closer, allowed a double and a walk to the first two batters. Following a strikeout, a single, and a sacrifice fly, the Padres narrowed the score to 6-3. Two more singles made the score 6-5, prompting Mariners manager Dan Wilson to replace Muñoz with reliever Jose Ferrer. With a runner on base and two outs, Ferrer faced Merrill, who earlier in the game had made a pivotal defensive play. On the fifth pitch of the at-bat, Merrill hit a sinker down the left-field line for a double, driving in the winning run. In the third inning, with the Mariners leading 2-0, Julio Rodriguez hit a ball deep to center field. Merrill leaped at the wall, preventing a home run. After the game, Merrill called it “the best catch I've ever made,” according to ESPN. Merrill's performance contributed to the Padres' victory. He is currently batting .261/.320/.464.