Max Muncy has quietly etched his name into Los Angeles Dodgers lore.
Since joining the Dodgers in 2018 after spending 2015 and 2016 with the Oakland Athletics, Muncy has transformed into an elite power hitter and two-time World Series champion.
On a franchise loaded with superstars and future Hall of Fame inductees, Muncy has been one of the heartbeats of their decade-long dominance.
Muncy’s 162-game averages with Los Angeles are more impressive than some would think, with 36 home runs, 101 RBIs, a .230 batting average, an .838 OPS, a 126 OPS+, and infield versatility to make life easier for manager Dave Roberts.
Even in his age-34 season, Muncy is still a productive slugger with nine home runs, a .771 OPS, and a 121 OPS+. As he nears the twilight of his playing days, he has begun to think about a retirement plan.
Here is what Muncy told Doug McKain of Dodgers Nation on his future hopes:
“I don't think it's any secret that I would like to retire here. I've made that very well known. In terms of how that works out, I can't worry about that right now,” Muncy said.
Muncy appears well removed from his heyday, which included three top-15 National League MVP finishes and two All-Star nods from 2018-21. But, he is still an effective middle or bottom-of-the-lineup piece for a Dodgers team focused on defending their crown.
Muncy is making $14.5 million this season and is set to make $10 million in 2026, although Los Angeles does have a club option if they choose to part ways. He is probably set for one or two more short-term contracts, and there is no reason the Dodgers should not be interested in retiring Muncy as one of their own.
Outside of No. 4 prospect Alex Freeland, a natural shortstop who can play third base, there is no obvious heir apparent for Muncy at the hot corner. As long as he continues to crush baseballs, he should finish his career in Los Angeles.
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