Last season, what initially presented as a minor oblique strain for Los Angeles Dodgers third baseman Max Muncy escalated into three months on the injured list.
During his extended absence, Muncy experienced moments of significant doubt. “When you’re in month three of not playing, and nothing’s getting better, you’re starting to have thoughts in your head,” Muncy shared with the LA Times. “Like, ‘Is this my body telling me that you just can’t do this anymore?’ That was a tough one for me.”
Ultimately, a chiropractor identified a displaced rib as the underlying cause of Muncy’s prolonged discomfort. This discovery allowed him to return to the lineup in August, where he subsequently regained his form and performed strongly.
Muncy concluded the 2024 regular season with an impressive .925 OPS, and then played a crucial role in the Dodgers’ World Series pursuit, notably setting a record by reaching base in 12 consecutive plate appearances during the National League Championship Series.
Reflecting on his 2024 season, Muncy identified two key takeaways from his time on the injured list: a renewed confidence in his abilities and the need for a refined mental approach.
Los Angeles Dodgers, Max Muncy Playing Under “New Light”
“The injury kind of gave me a new light,” Muncy said. “It’s always been a blessing to be out there and play this game. But when you start reaching a point last year where you weren’t sure if you were going to be able to come back at all, you start really being grateful for the opportunities you have to be out there.”
“It’s just one of those things,” he added, “where you’re gonna appreciate it a little bit more.”
With his oblique injury nearing full recovery—an ailment that also impacted his performance during the playoffs, necessitating pre-game pain medication—Muncy has shifted his focus to refining the mechanics of his powerful swing.
As of Friday, he had reached base in eight of his first 11 plate appearances in the Cactus League, registering a home run and three RBIs.