Sat Jul 05 03:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Dodgers Breathe Sigh of Relief: Muncy Avoids Major Knee Injury, Expected Back This Season
**LOS ANGELES** – Initial fears of a season-ending injury for Dodgers third baseman Max Muncy were allayed Thursday, as the team announced he suffered only a bone bruise in his left knee after a collision Wednesday night. The injury, sustained during a steal attempt at third base against the Chicago White Sox, initially sparked concerns of ligament tears and structural damage.
“Obviously, [there were] a lot of emotions,” said Dodgers General Manager Brandon Gomes. “From a coping mechanism in my head, it was like, ‘OK, he’s done for the year.'”
However, subsequent tests revealed the damage was far less severe than initially feared. Muncy is now expected to miss approximately six weeks, allowing him ample time to recover and regain his form before the playoffs.
“We’ve had a lot more [injury situations] where we’ve gone in optimistic and then come out the other side not as optimistic,” Gomes said, expressing relief. “So it was nice to have that turned on its head.”
Manager Dave Roberts expressed optimism that the lower-body injury would not negatively impact Muncy’s swing upon his return, noting the team’s focus on a careful and unhurried rehabilitation process.
Prior to the injury, Muncy was enjoying a stellar stretch at the plate, batting .308 with 12 home runs and 48 RBIs in his last 46 games. His absence will undoubtedly be felt in the Dodgers’ lineup.
Despite Muncy’s injury, Gomes and Roberts indicated that the Dodgers are unlikely to alter their trade deadline plans significantly. The team plans to rely on internal options, including Tommy Edman, Kiké Hernández, and Miguel Rojas, to fill the void at third base. Prospect Alex Freeland could offer depth from the minors if needed. Hyeseong Kim is also expected to receive increased playing time at second base while Edman fills in at third.
“Knowing the certainty of Max coming back at some point,” Roberts said, “I don’t think that will really impact our thinking going into the deadline.”
While names like Nolan Arenado and others have been linked to the Dodgers in trade rumors, the team appears content to await Muncy’s return, believing his presence will be crucial for a potential playoff run. The Dodgers possess a highly-ranked farm system, providing them with ample resources to make a significant move if necessary, but for now, they are banking on a successful recovery for their star third baseman.
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