Dodgers Activate Max Muncy from IL; Will Smith Expected Tuesday

The Los Angeles Dodgers are getting a timely surge of offensive firepower as veteran slugger Max Muncy returns from the injured list.

After missing over three weeks with an oblique issue, Muncy is back in the lineup and ready to make an immediate impact in a tight NL West race.

His return comes at a pivotal point in the season, with the Dodgers holding a razor-thin lead over their division rivals.

It could be the spark they need down the stretch—at least, that’s what fans are hoping for.

Muncy’s Road Back from Injury

Max Muncy, 35, hasn’t had an easy 2024 campaign from a health standpoint.

His latest stint on the injured list started after he tweaked his oblique on August 13 during batting cage work and kept him sidelined for 23 games.

He’d already missed a month in July with a bone bruise in his left knee.

Still, when he’s actually been on the field, his production has stood out.

In 89 games this season, Muncy has put up a .259 batting average and a robust .389 on-base percentage.

He’s slugged .491, launched 17 home runs, and driven in 64 runs—still showing off that signature mix of power and patience.

The Value of Muncy’s Bat

Manager Dave Roberts called Muncy’s return a “big boost” for the lineup.

His left-handed power and knack for working deep counts fill a key role in the Dodgers’ offensive plan.

On Monday, Roberts didn’t hesitate to put Muncy right back in the cleanup spot and at third base against the Colorado Rockies.

Muncy’s presence adds instant protection to the heart of the order, forcing pitchers to deal with a much more dangerous middle lineup.

That’s going to matter as the Dodgers gear up for a stretch run packed with divisional clashes.

More Reinforcements on the Way

The Dodgers aren’t just getting Muncy back.

The team also expects Catcher Will Smith to return soon after he took a foul ball off his right hand last week.

Roberts mentioned Smith could even pinch-hit Monday, and he should be back in full duty by Tuesday.

Smith, 30, has been one of baseball’s top offensive catchers in 2024, batting .296 with 19 doubles, 17 homers, and 61 RBI.

He’s also provided excellent defense behind the plate, making him a critical piece both offensively and in handling the pitching staff.

Tommy Edman Nearing a Return

Infield and outfield depth could also get a boost soon, as utilityman Tommy Edman continues to rehab a sprained right ankle.

Edman’s speed, versatility, and switch-hitting make him a valuable tool for the Dodgers’ postseason push.

Dodgers in a Tight NL West Race

Heading into Monday, the Dodgers held an NL West lead of just one game over the San Diego Padres.

The records stood at 79-64 and 78-65, which really doesn’t leave much room for mistakes.

The schedule is packed with meaningful games down the stretch, and every win feels bigger than the last.

Why Muncy’s Return Matters Now

With the division race so close, every extra-base hit, walk, and RBI gets magnified.

Muncy’s return brings not just another dangerous bat but also a psychological lift to the team.

As the Dodgers battle both elite competition and scrappy underdogs, having a proven veteran with postseason experience could make all the difference.

Key Takeaways

The Dodgers’ playoff push is getting reinforcements at just the right time. Here’s why that actually matters:

• Max Muncy’s power and on-base skills give the Dodgers depth and some much-needed protection in the lineup.
• Will Smith’s pending return strengthens both the offense and defense behind the dish.
• Tommy Edman’s versatility adds infield and outfield flexibility.
• The Dodgers are in a must-win mentality with only a one-game NL West lead.

The roster’s getting healthier just as the stakes hit their peak. Dodger fans have a little more reason to hope again.

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Here is the source article for this story: Dodgers activate infielder Max Muncy from IL, expect catcher Will Smith to return Tuesday