Dave Roberts Confused By ‘Good Defender’ Max Muncy’s Struggles At Third Base

Max Muncy has been a fixture at third base for the Los Angeles Dodgers, but this season has seen him continue to struggle defensively.

He has committed eight errors through 51 games played, which in some cases have significantly contributed to Dodgers’ losses. Such was the case on Sunday, with Muncy’s misplay leading to two unearned runs for the New York Mets in an eventual 3-1 loss.

The 2024 season offered confirmation of what Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has observed about Muncy’s skillset defensively, as the 34-year-old showed tangible improvements with his glove.

But it is also why this season has been a source of frustration for Roberts because he has seen Muncy has the ability to be a solid third baseman, according to Fabian Ardaya of the Athletic:

“I feel that he has an accurate throwing arm — but at times it’s inaccurate,” Roberts said. “I feel that he catches the ball cleanly — but at times he doesn’t. I think he can get to his arm and get the ball out of his glove — but at times it doesn’t. I see a good defender. But I understand the statistics, the numbers, all that stuff. That’s why I’m just as frustrated as he is because I see a good defender at third base.”

On Wednesday, Muncy wasn’t charged with an error but he failed to make a play at third base on a tricky hop during a fateful eighth inning for the Dodgers.

Much like with Muncy at the plate in 2025, Roberts needs to see more consistency.

Muncy’s performance through the rest of the way is important as the Dodgers will be at a crossroads after the season due to their $10 million team option on his contract for 2026.

Max Muncy working to improve defense

In nearly 200 fewer innings, Muncy’s eight errors on the season have already surpassed his total from 2024. He acknowledges his defensive performance isn’t adequate enough and is working to fix those issues while keeping a positive outlook.