In OPs case they were asked. So the conversation is different.
We did not try and negotiate with schools.
You could try. The worst they can do is say we don’t reconsider merit and it’s likely most well known schools will say that.
Unless they say if we get you here will you commit, you won’t be bound.
It’s a personal choice whether to ask. My guess is in most cases it won’t be successful but I’ve read many stories that say otherwise.