UPDATE: The Los Angeles Dodgers face a significant setback as third baseman Max Muncy has been placed on the injured list due to a Grade 1 oblique strain. This injury comes at a critical time as the Dodgers are struggling in the standings, now trailing the San Diego Padres by one game in the National League West as of August 4, 2023.
Muncy was initially scratched from the lineup on Wednesday after experiencing soreness during batting practice. The hope was that resting him through Thursday would allow for a swift return against the division-rival Padres, but that will not be the case. Muncy is expected to miss not only this weekend’s series at Dodger Stadium but also the upcoming series at Petco Park next weekend.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts expressed concern, stating, “I don’t think anyone expects it to be season-ending, but hopefully it’s sooner than later.” While Roberts believes this injury isn’t as severe as Muncy’s previous knee injury that caused him to miss most of July, he anticipates the team could be without their key player until mid-September at the earliest.
Muncy has been on a tear since mid-May, boasting an impressive .312 batting average with 11 home runs over a span of 41 games. His absence is a blow to a Dodgers offense that has struggled lately, posting a .708 OPS ranking 22nd in Major League Baseball. The team has gone from a commanding nine-game lead in the NL West on July 3 to a current record of just 12-21, putting them in jeopardy in the playoff race.
In Muncy’s absence, the Dodgers are set to rely on rookie Alex Freeland, who has a batting average of just .176 in his first 12 games, and veteran Buddy Kennedy, who carries a career average of .193. The situation is compounded by injuries to other potential contributors, with players like Tommy Edman and Enrique Hernandez also sidelined.
“This is certainly a tough loss,” Roberts commented. “Guys just have to continue to perform to their abilities. It’s hard to backfill Max in terms of plate discipline and slugging.”
As the Dodgers prepare for a crucial stretch of games without Muncy, fans are left wondering how this will impact their playoff aspirations. With the Padres riding a five-game winning streak, every game counts more than ever as the Dodgers strive to regain their standing in the National League West.
Stay tuned for further updates on Muncy’s recovery and how the Dodgers plan to navigate this challenging period without one of their key players.
