The Los Angeles Dodgers are navigating a critical phase in their season without first baseman Max Muncy, who was placed on the 10-day injured list due to a Grade 1 right oblique strain. This injury occurred just as the Dodgers faced the San Diego Padres in an important series, intensifying the challenges for a team already struggling to maintain momentum in the National League West.
To fill Muncy’s roster spot, Los Angeles brought in Buddy Kennedy, recently claimed off waivers from the Toronto Blue Jays. Kennedy’s addition aims to help offset the loss on the active roster as the Dodgers seek to remain competitive during this pivotal stretch.
Details and Recovery Outlook for Muncy’s Oblique Strain
Muncy’s injury first surfaced ahead of a game against the Los Angeles Angels when he was removed from the lineup due to soreness on his right side. Though similar to the oblique strain that sidelined him for three months last season, this Grade 1 injury is considered less severe, offering hope for a quicker return.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts described the recovery approach as cautious and measured.
You kind of take it week-to-week and see when he can start baseball activities again to get him back,
Roberts said.
But I don’t think anyone expects it to be season-ending. But hopefully it’s sooner than later.
Roberts added context on the nature of the injury, noting,
I think it was on the right side, but it was more of a bigger area, not just really focused in one little spot. So that kind of led to the the MRI, and just to get a scan of it,
and also remarked,
But from what I hear, it’s not as bad as it was last year. I think a similar feeling, but a little bit less, a little bit more on the mild side.
Adaptations at Third Base During Muncy’s Absence
With Muncy unavailable, the Dodgers plan to rely on a rotation at third base involving both Buddy Kennedy and prospect Alex Freeland. Freeland has already gained some experience at the position this season, providing depth as the team copes with the injury setback.
Regarding the strategy, Roberts explained,
We’re going to play Kennedy over there a little bit. We’ll play Freeland over there a little bit, and they’ll split time,
reflecting the team’s flexible approach to managing the lineup while awaiting Muncy’s recovery.
Implications for Dodgers’ Playoff Prospects
The timing of Muncy’s right oblique strain comes as the Dodgers face mounting pressure to close the gap with the surging Padres atop the division. While the injury is not considered career-threatening or season-ending, it leaves the team in a precarious position heading into September’s playoff race.
If Muncy can return sooner than anticipated, his presence would provide a significant boost to the Dodgers’ lineup and their postseason aspirations. Until then, the team will depend on younger players and depth additions to maintain competitiveness in a tightly contested National League West race.