“Long way to go,” Max Muncy talks about RETIREMENT mindset amidst 2024 injury struggles and upcoming regular season 

Dodgers infielder Max Muncy says he thought about retirement after missing months due to continued injury strain in 2024.

“Long way to go,” Max Muncy talks about RETIREMENT mindset amidst 2024 injury struggles and upcoming regular season 

Max Muncy [Image Credit; Los Angeles Times]

In a recent interview with LA Times, Los Angeles Dodgers infielder Max Muncy talked about his 2024 struggles and his aim for the upcoming season. Last season, what initially presented as an oblique strain turned out to be accompanied by a displaced rib, which led the player to be on IL for months. 

He was sidelined for three months, but even more than physical pain, his mental struggles took a toll on the 34-year-old veteran. It made the player question himself and his capabilities to perform in his 100% mode with the Dodgers during the postseason.

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However, the player even surprised himself with solid records in the offseason and a World Series championship to boost his resume for the upcoming season. There were rumors about the team trading him, but Muncy never commented on them.

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Following his extended IL stay, Max Muncy made his comeback in August, where he regained his form on the field. His regular season ended with an impressive record of .925 OPS, and he even got to lead the team of WS victory with his teammates.

When you’re in month three of not playing, and nothing’s getting better, you’re starting to have thoughts in your head. Like, ‘Is this my body telling me that you just can’t do this anymore?’ That was a tough one for me.

Max Muncy as per Jack Harris of LA Times.com.

Muncy, reflecting on the last season, noted how he took the field for granted and that not being able to play and being unsure about his return made him think twice. His oblique strain is nearing full recovery, and he is expected to be a force in the lineup for the 2025 season.

While his injury required him to be on medication even during the World Series, he is now in much better shape. He is currently partnering with Mookie Betts on the left side of the infield during their practice game at Camelback Ranch.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts added that Muncy is now in far better shape as he is “physically in a good place” with a single-minded focus. The focus remains for the team to win the World Series title back-to-back in 2025, too.

Max Muncy labels Mookie Betts as the “best athlete” heading into 2025

With the 2025 regular season not too far off, Los Angeles Dodgers players Max Muncy and Mookie Betts are further strengthening their bond both on and off the field. In an interview with USA Today, Muncy praised Betts as the “best athlete” he’s ever played with.

Max Muncy and Mookie Betts
Max Muncy and Mookie Betts [Image Credit: Dodger Blue]

He said that Betts is becoming one of the best defensive shortstops in the league and commented on how he enjoys challenges during matches. Muncy further noted that he’s excited to see how Betts showcases his “natural” skills on the field for the 2025 season.

Mookie is Mookie, he’s the best athlete I’ve ever seen. He looks great out there. He’s starting to look more natural. Mookie is just different. This kind of challenge is really fun for him. He really enjoys it.

Max Muncy as per Bob Nightengale of USA Today.com.

Muncy also commented on the upcoming 2025 season games, saying that “we’re hungrier than ever.” While they have a mark on their back, they are ready to face the other teams that are also aiming for the World Series crown from the current champions.