On Monday, ahead of their series against the Colorado Rockies, the Los Angeles Dodgers announced that third baseman Max Muncy has been activated from the injured list. In a corresponding move, catcher Chuckie Robinson was optioned back to Triple-A Oklahoma City.
The move comes as the Dodgers return home following a brutal road trip that saw them drop five of six games. The trip was defined by a series of bullpen collapses, including a disastrous ninth inning against the Orioles that turned a potential win into a walk-off defeat. Even ace Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s strong outing was spoiled by relief struggles. Despite the setbacks, Los Angeles salvaged the finale on Sunday and will look to regroup against the Rockies.
Muncy’s return provides a much-needed spark for a Dodgers offense that has lacked consistent run support. He has missed the last 22 games, but his presence is expected to provide protection in the lineup behind the star trio of Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts, and Freddie Freeman. Beyond the numbers, Muncy’s leadership has long been a stabilizing force in the Dodgers’ clubhouse, and his return comes at a pivotal moment as the Dodgers cling to a slim one-game lead over the San Diego Padres in the NL West.
Statistically, Muncy has put together a strong season despite his time on the shelf. After struggling early, he made the adjustment to wear glasses at the plate, which he has credited for his resurgence. The results speak for themselves: he is hitting .258 with a .389 OBP, .880 OPS, and 17 home runs. While his year has been interrupted by injuries, his bat has remained a central part of the Dodgers’ offense when available.
It’s not just Muncy’s return that could turn the tide for Los Angeles. Left-handed reliever Alex Vesia is also on track to rejoin the bullpen as soon as Tuesday. His return couldn’t come at a better time. The Dodgers’ relief corps has been inconsistent, forcing manager Dave Roberts to lean heavily on veteran arms that have faltered in tight spots. Vesia has been one of the Dodgers’ most dependable lefties over the past two seasons, and his presence should help stabilize late-inning situations.
With Muncy back in the lineup and Vesia likely returning soon, the Dodgers are getting reinforcements at a critical juncture. After a rocky road trip, the team now has a chance to reset at home, and both additions could prove decisive as the division race tightens.