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Dodgers Expected to Monitor Trade Talks Surrounding All-Star Third Baseman

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matthew Sullivan | Last updated May 18, 2025 1:03 PM ET

With the Los Angeles Dodgers, there is never a moment when continuing to upgrade is off the table. It's especially the case with the Dodgers' third-base position, as there has been a question mark there all season long.

According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, the Dodgers are expected to be in the market for Colorado Rockies third baseman Ryan McMahon.

Nightengale writes, "Several teams, including the Chicago Cubs and Los Angeles Dodgers, are closely monitoring Colorado Rockies infielder Ryan McMahon in case he's traded this summer."

McMahon is a primary third baseman for the in-division Rockies. While in-division trades are rare, the Rockies could move off the veteran for the right price.

If the Dodgers trade for McMahon, they would pick up the remaining of his six-year, $70 million contract. The Dodgers would have McMahon through the 2027 season, and would be on the hook for $16 million in 2026 and 2027.

While McMahon is having a start to the year below his normal offensive production, he's been a decent hitter for the Rockies. His walk rate is elite, while his hard-hit percentage and average exit velocity are in the 90th percentile or higher according to Baseball Savant.

The Dodgers would be in the market for McMahon as a potential replacement for Max Muncy at third base. The 34-year-old is batting .211, which is better than McMahon's .209. But, McMahon has a .709 OPS compared to Muncy's .674 OPS.

Adding McMahon would also upgrade the Dodgers' defense, as Muncy is a significantly worse defender. McMahon has a .971 fielding percentage while Muncy has a .933.

McMahon also has a much better fielding range, or Outs Above Average, than Muncy. McMahon has a 3 OAA (91st percentile), while Muncy has -4 OAA (7th percentile) according to Baseball Savant.

The large difference in fielding ability makes the slightly higher average meaningless, especially with McMahon having a higher OPS. The Dodgers could use an upgrade over Muncy, even if he's been hitting better as of late.

Adding the 30-year-old McMahon would elevate the Dodgers' defense and provide an upgrade offensively at the same time.

With the summer coming into focus, the Dodgers are expected to monitor the trade market of McMahon, and are among the many teams interested in the veteran third baseman's services.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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