Max Muncy Reflects on His Tenure with the Dodgers

As the last season wound down, Max Muncy had a realization about his position within the Los Angeles Dodgers. With pivotal players like Austin Barnes and Chris Taylor no longer with the team, and Clayton Kershaw contemplating retirement, Muncy noted that he would soon hold the title of “Longest Tenured Dodger” come 2026.

“It was a wild idea,” Muncy, now 35, expressed. “But it’s definitely a blessing. I’m really grateful.” This sentiment is understandable, especially given how he has navigated his career since reviving it nearly a decade ago. His goal has always been to remain in Los Angeles throughout his playing years.

A testament to this commitment is his decision to bypass arbitration back in 2020 for a three-year, $26 million deal. He also agreed to team-friendly contract extensions over the following years, opting to avoid the free agency route. Recently, after the Dodgers exercised the option on his contract for the upcoming season, Muncy quickly sought another extension. This week, they finalized a $10 million contract that will extend his stay at least through 2027.

“I’m very happy with the situation I’m in,” Muncy noted. “It’s just one of those things where I wanted to get something done, they wanted to get something done, and we came to an agreement that I think is fair to both of us.” Of course, he could have pursued a more lucrative deal elsewhere.

Even though recent injuries have limited him, Muncy remains one of the more productive third basemen in the league. After the 2025 season, he recorded a .243 batting average—his best in four years—with 19 home runs and 67 RBIs in 100 games. If he maintains similar performance in 2026, he’s likely to earn more than the guaranteed $7 million per year outlined in his new deal.

“I know I’m leaving some money on the table,” he admitted. “But I want to be here. I want to finish my career here. Chasing money somewhere else isn’t fun, and I’ve never been comfortable with that.”

His new contract has built-in incentive opportunities. He’ll earn up to $2.25 million in bonuses this season, plus potential additional earnings in 2027 based on his performance. While these earnings may not align with the market average, the comfort of playing for the Dodgers outweighs financial considerations for him.

When discussing his family, Muncy stressed the importance of stability. He and his wife, Kelly, recently welcomed their third child, and he appreciates that his kids are growing up in a city that holds significant meaning for them. “My kids were born in Los Angeles, and all they know is the Dodgers,” he reflected. “They love being at the stadium.”

Muncy also values his role within the Dodgers’ organization. He feels respected and listened to by the coaching staff and appreciates mentoring younger players. “It’s something I wouldn’t think of building anywhere else,” he stated.

As he looks ahead, Muncy expects to evaluate his future around the 2028 season, when he would be 38. He wants to retire on his own terms, well before his performance begins to decline. “I’m not going to chase forever,” he concluded. “I want to go out and be competitive.”

For now, Muncy stands as not only the Dodgers’ longest-tenured player but also a vital part of the team’s ambitions to secure a third straight World Series title. “I really want to make a decision once it’s over,” he said. “This (new contract) gives me a good opportunity to do that.”