Los Angeles Dodgers third baseman Max Muncy has been placed on the injured list due to a bone bruise in his left knee. The injury occurred during a collision with Chicago White Sox center fielder Michael A.
Taylor in a game on Wednesday. Although an MRI revealed that there was no structural damage, Muncy is expected to miss around six weeks. Here’s a closer look at the injury and its impact on Muncy and the Dodgers’ lineup.
The Injury Incident
Max Muncy’s injury occurred during the sixth inning of Wednesday night’s game against the Chicago White Sox. Muncy was attempting to tag out Taylor, who was attempting a steal. After catching a throw from catcher Will Smith, Muncy collided with Taylor, leading to him injuring his left knee.
Muncy immediately fell to the ground, and trainers had to come out to check on him. The third baseman was unable to put weight on his left leg and had to be helped off the field.
“I was obviously relieved to hear there was no tearing or ripping,” Muncy said after the MRI results. Despite this, he expressed concern over the six-week recovery period.
The Relief and Next Steps
Muncy was grateful that the injury was not more serious, as the MRI confirmed there was no structural damage, but the bone bruise is expected to keep him out for at least six weeks.
“It was tough news, but it was also great news when you look at the injury that could have happened,” Muncy reflected. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts also shared his relief, saying he deliberately avoided watching the replay of the collision due to its gruesome nature.
Muncy’s absence leaves a gap in the Dodgers’ lineup, but they are prepared to adjust. Miguel Rojas started in Muncy’s place in the series finale against the White Sox, though he went 0-for-3 in the Dodgers’ 6-2 victory.
Enrique Hernandez is set to play third base starting Friday against the Houston Astros. Additionally, utilityman Tommy Edman will begin preparing for a possible role in the platoon at third base.
The Impact on Muncy and the Dodgers
Muncy has been a key player for the Dodgers this season, hitting .250 with 13 home runs and 55 RBIs in 81 games. His absence for several weeks will undoubtedly affect the team’s depth, but the Dodgers are making moves to adjust.
The team also recalled outfielder Esteury Ruiz from Triple-A Oklahoma City. Ruiz, who has had an impressive season in the minors with a .292 average, 8 home runs, and 38 stolen bases, will likely play a role in the upcoming games.
As Muncy recovers, the Dodgers will need to rely on other players to step up in his absence. While the loss is significant, the team remains focused on maintaining their momentum.
Clayton Kershaw’s Milestone
While Muncy’s injury was the primary concern, the same game marked a significant moment for the Dodgers. Just after Muncy and Taylor left the field, pitcher Clayton Kershaw struck out Vinny Capra for his 3,000th career strikeout, adding a historic achievement to the game.
Muncy admitted that, while he was dealing with his injury, it was hard not to feel bad about missing Kershaw’s milestone. “I really was not happy about that,” he said.
Max Muncy’s injury is a tough blow to the Dodgers, but his relief upon hearing there was no structural damage is a small comfort. With Muncy out for at least six weeks, the team will need to adjust, relying on players like Miguel Rojas, Enrique Hernandez, and Tommy Edman to fill the gap.
Despite the setback, the Dodgers are in good hands with their depth and will continue to aim for success as they push forward in the season. Fans will also be keeping an eye on Kershaw’s continued pursuit of greatness after his 3,000th career strikeout.
