The Dodgers still need to figure out third base

Muncy is back, but he's not the answer

The Dodgers made their first move of the offseason on Thursday, as they signed Max Muncy to a two-year contract. The team had to make a decision in the coming days on his $14 million club option for 2024.

According to the AP, Muncy gets a $5 million signing bonus and salaries of $7 million next year and $12 million in 2025. The deal includes a $10 million club option for 2026 with no buyout.

Muncy tied his career high with 36 home runs in 2023. His 105 RBI were also the most of his career. Oh, and he did this while missing 27 games as well.

Only six players in all of baseball hit at least 36 home runs and drove in 105 runs in 2023. Matt Alson, Pete Alonso, Ronald Acuna Jr, Mookie Betts, Adolis Garcia….. and Max Muncy. Pretty elite company, if you ask me!

Yeah, Muncy is an absolute BARGAIN at this price.

While No. 13 will suit up for the Dodgers for at least two more seasons, I don’t think he can be the answer at third base for those two years. I don’t have to tell you how bad he was defensively, you saw that first-hand when you watched him play. He wasn’t great!

Now, that’s not really Muncy’s fault. The Dodgers have had him play all over the infield over the last few years. He’s doing the team a solid by playing third base. Things just haven’t gone great over there.

Outside of Muncy, the Dodgers don’t have many options at third base. When looking at the current roster, Chris Taylor is the only player who could really see any reps there. Outside of him, maybe Michael Busch? He’s not exactly an upgrade there, either.

So, what do the Dodgers do?

Well, your guess is as good as mine. But since this is my Substack, I can share what I would LIKE the Dodgers do potentially do.

Sign Matt Chapman.