The Dodgers are expected to receive a much-needed boost ahead of their Wild Card showdown against the Cincinnati Reds, as it was announced on Monday that third baseman Max Muncy is on track to return to the lineup. Muncy, who was sidelined during the final stretch of the regular season due to lower-body soreness, has been trending in the right direction in recent days and is expected to be ready to play when the Dodgers open postseason play on Tuesday.
Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic reported that Muncy is slated to take additional at-bats during a live batting practice session on Monday evening. If all goes well and he avoids any last-minute setbacks, the veteran is expected to reclaim his spot at third base and return to the heart of the Dodgers’ lineup for the Wild Card matchup.
The return of Muncy provides a significant boost to the Dodgers' offense. In 100 games during the regular season, the 35-year-old slugger posted a .243 batting average with a substantial .376 on-base percentage, an .846 OPS, 19 home runs, and 67 RBIs.
While Muncy's status is encouraging, the Dodgers remain uncertain about the availability of All-Star catcher Will Smith. Smith, who suffered a fracture to his right hand late in the season, has been limited in recent weeks as he works toward a potential return. According to reports, his inclusion on the Wild Card roster remains uncertain as the Dodgers continue to evaluate his recovery and comfort level at the plate.
Smith's absence would be a considerable blow to the Dodgers’ offense and pitching staff. The 30-year-old backstop is not only one of the team's most consistent run producers but also a trusted leader behind the plate. In 110 games this season, Will Smith has put together one of the best offensive campaigns of his career. He posted a .296 batting average with a .404 on-base percentage and added 17 home runs while providing the Dodgers with steady, high-quality defense behind the plate. Smith may not lead the league in power numbers, but his consistency in the heart of the lineup has been a driving force behind the Dodgers’ success this year. There’s no question that if the Dodgers hope to reach their postseason goals, Smith will be a crucial piece. His presence—both at the plate and behind the dish—will be desperately needed as the Dodgers look to make a deep playoff run.
As the Dodgers prepare for Tuesday’s matchup with the Reds, having Muncy healthy could provide a crucial spark. However, the uncertainty surrounding Smith’s status leaves a lingering question mark over how the team will structure its lineup and game plan. Dodgers fans will be eagerly awaiting further updates before the Wild Card roster is finalized.