Los Angeles Dodgers third baseman Max Muncy is expected to miss approximately six weeks after suffering a bone bruise in his left knee during a collision at second base. The injury, which occurred Wednesday night when Muncy tagged out Chicago White Sox outfielder Michael A. Taylor on a steal attempt, initially sparked fears of a serious ligament injury. However, an MRI confirmed no structural damage—just a deep bone bruise—offering relief to both Muncy and the Dodgers organization.
“It was tough news, but it was also great news when you consider how bad it looked in the moment,” said Muncy, who was visibly limping. “Nothing was torn, nothing ripped. That was a huge sigh of relief.”
Muncy’s injury cut short a strong season in which he’s hit .250 with 13 home runs and 55 RBIs in 81 games. The 34-year-old had quieted early-season criticism of his play at third base, thanks in part to a red-hot May following an adjustment that included wearing glasses. But now, his All-Star campaign is on hold.
The incident also sidelined Taylor, who exited with a bruised back but cleared concussion protocols. Both players were helped off the field shortly after the play, which occurred moments before Clayton Kershaw recorded his 3,000th career strikeout. “Honestly, the most heartbreaking part was missing that moment for Kersh,” Muncy said.
In response, the Dodgers placed Muncy on the injured list and recalled outfielder Esteury Ruiz from Triple-A Oklahoma City, where he’s hitting .292 with eight homers and 38 stolen bases. The organization is expected to evaluate long- and short-term solutions at third base, with Miguel Rojas, Enrique Hernández, and Tommy Edman—who will start taking grounders—expected to split time. Top infield prospect Alex Freeland, currently not on the 40-man roster, could also be an option once healthy.
Internally, the Dodgers are weighing trade deadline decisions. Though Nolan Arenado has long been linked to the club, his offensive regression and high salary through 2026 complicate matters. Other potential trade options include like Eugenio Suárez or Ryan McMahon.
For now, the Dodgers are hopeful Muncy’s recovery will stay on track. “Given how bad it looked, this might be the best-case scenario,” said manager Dave Roberts.