BREAKING: 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 urgent development comes just as the team struggles in the standings, now trailing the San Diego Padres by one game in the National League West.
Muncy, who was a late scratch from Wednesday’s lineup due to soreness in his right side, was hopeful for a quick return. However, he will miss not only this weekend’s crucial series at Dodger Stadium but also the next series in San Diego’s Petco Park starting August 11, 2023. The timing of this injury is especially critical, with the Dodgers having dropped from a nine-game division lead on July 3 to chasing the Padres.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts commented on the situation, stating,
“It’s certainly a tough loss. I don’t think anyone expects it to be season-ending, but hopefully it’s sooner than later.”
While Roberts believes this injury is not as severe as last year’s, which sidelined Muncy for around two months, the best-case scenario could still keep him out until mid-September.
Muncy had been performing well before his latest injury, batting .312 with a .438 on-base percentage and 11 home runs in just 41 games after a rocky start to the season. His comeback began on August 4, where he recorded four home runs in eight games. Now, the reigning World Series champions are left scrambling for replacements.
In Muncy’s absence, the Dodgers will turn to Alex Freeland, a rookie with a .176 batting average in his first 12 games, and Buddy Kennedy, who has struggled with a .193 career average. This comes amidst a backdrop of six high-leverage relievers also on the injured list, although three of them are nearing a return.
The Dodgers’ offense has been underwhelming lately, ranking 22nd in the majors with a .708 OPS over the past six weeks. Roberts expressed confidence in the remaining lineup but acknowledged the challenge of filling Muncy’s void, particularly regarding his plate discipline and power.
As the Dodgers prepare for their first game without Muncy, they face the urgent question: can they regain their footing in a critical moment of the season? With the division title slipping away, every game becomes crucial. Stay tuned as this story develops and impacts the Dodgers’ playoff hopes.
