MLB Insider Discusses Max Muncy’s Future With the Dodgers
The curious case of Max Muncy’s struggles has continued to be a hot-button issue with the fanbase.
Muncy has never been a player who hits for average. For his career, he’s only a .226 hitter. Having said that, he’s normally an on-base machine. For his career, he holds an OBP of .350.
Currently, Muncy is having a tough time at the plate — hitting only .186 in 102 at-bats. He has a .311 OBP with one home run and seven RBIs. Known for being a power hitter, Muncy went 28 games without hitting a home run.
Muncy recently began wearing prescription glasses after a recent diagnosis of astigmatism in his right eye. He is hopeful that the change helps him turn a corner.
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Turning 35 years old in August, there are many wondering how much longer he’ll be registered as an automatic starter within this franchise. He’s a very loyal player, and one who’s come up with several clutch hits and moments throughout his Dodgers tenure.
In a sense, Muncy is also a poster child for the immense developmental skills the Dodgers have cultivated in the Andrew Friedman era. Muncy was an afterthought with the Athletics before LA brought him on board. Since then, he’s become a two-time All-Star, a two-time World Series Champion, and one of the better third basemen in the league.
MLB insider Bob Nightengale recently spoke with Dodgers Nation’s Doug McKain about Muncy’s future with the franchise. He seems to think Muncy’s $10 million option will be picked up considering the cost and the respect Muncy has within the team.
“I do (think he’s back next season) And I mean, picking up $10 million is a no-brainer,” Nightengale said. “I would think they just simply do that, and then play it by ear and see what happens after the end of 2026. He loves it there, obviously. They love him. So I don’t see Muncy going anywhere.”
If Muncy continues to falter at the plate, it will be fascinating to see what the Dodgers do to find some production. Nolan Arenado is still on the trade block, but the Dodgers have not expressed interest in the 10-time Gold Glover. Prospect Alex Freeland has also been playing quite well for the Triple-A affiliate in Oklahoma City.
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Photo Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
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It is not a no-brainer to pick up Muncy’s $10 million option for 2026. Muncy is 35 going on 40. Save the $10 million, use it toward signing Kyle Tucker to replace Conforto [another $17 million savings]. Freeland is probably a better player right now than Muncy. Freeland would be a minimum contract for 3 years, saving $10 million next year in place of Muncy. Or sign Murakami from Japan.
It’s certainly cost-effective for the Dodgers to pick up Muncy’s $10 million option, but you make a good point. The Dodgers have replacement options.
Most likely Taylor, Kike, Barnes, and Conforto are gone next year. Unless Muncy snaps out of it and OPS’s .800 I hope the Dodgers let him go. I would like them to go after Murakami to take over 3B and Cedric Mullins to play CF. Freeland or Rushing will be Smiths backup next year.
Muncy is definitely NOT one of the better 3rd basemen in the league. Struggles with hard hit balls at times and struggles routinely with throwing over to 1st base. It’s always a ‘hold-your-breath’ moment whenever he throws over there.
And this is the 3rd time this article has been repeated on this site in one form or another. Bob Nightengale has been quoted in all 3.
Sorry to be so negative.