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The Los Angeles Dodgers are scripting a tale of resilience in 2025. Despite a pitching staff decimated by injuries and third baseman Max Muncy’s alarming slump, the team leads Major League Baseball with a 23-11 record. Muncy, a cornerstone of their lineup in recent years, is batting a career-worst .186 with just one home run and a .605 OPS. But as the trade deadline looms, the Dodgers’ front office might have an unexpected lifeline to salvage their infield—and it’s tied to a superstar with Hollywood roots.
Inside Los Angeles Dodgers’ pursuit of a blockbuster fix
Max Muncy’s decline has baffled fans and analysts alike. After a solid 2024 campaign, the 34-year-old’s production has cratered, with his strikeout rate spiking and power evaporating. A recent diagnosis of astigmatism in his right eye, reported by Essentially Sports, may explain his struggles at the plate. The condition, affecting depth perception and timing, has turned one of the Dodgers’ most reliable bats into a liability. While Muncy works to adjust, the team can’t afford to wait for a turnaround with the July 31 trade deadline approaching.
Injury woes pile up
The Dodgers’ roster resembles a MASH unit. Ace starters Blake Snell (forearm) and Tyler Glasnow (shoulder) remain sidelined, while second baseman Tommy Edman recently joined the injured list with a hamstring strain. The bullpen, already stretched thin, has leaned on unproven arms to preserve leads. Yet, the lineup—until Muncy’s nosedive—had masked these gaps. Now, the front office faces pressure to address their weakest link.
Nolan Arenado: The dream scenario
According to MLB insider Bob Nightengale, the Dodgers have their sights set on Nolan Arenado, the St. Louis Cardinals’ $260 million third baseman. The Cardinals, eager to shed salary and rebuild, are actively shopping the eight-time Gold Glover. Arenado, a Southern California native, has reportedly signaled interest in joining the Dodgers, even posting social media clips with “Dodger blue” themes and Kendrick Lamar tracks.
“If something happened to Max Muncy… Arenado would do somersaults to get to Los Angeles,” Nightengale quipped.
Why Arenado Fits
Arenado’s elite defense and consistent bat (.280 average, 12 HRs in 2025) would instantly stabilize the Dodgers’ infield. His leadership and postseason pedigree align with the team’s win-now ethos. While his contract is hefty, the Cardinals’ willingness to absorb part of the salary for prospects makes a deal feasible. For Nolan Arenado, a homecoming could rejuvenate his career—and his childhood team’s title hopes.
Muncy’s uncertain future
The Dodgers haven’t officially pivoted from Muncy, hoping he rediscovers his form. However, his health complicates the equation. Astigmatism, while manageable, requires adjustments at the plate—a challenge mid-season. Manager Dave Roberts has already dropped Muncy in the order, but patience wears thin as the deadline nears.
The bigger picture
The Dodgers’ 23-11 record is a testament to their depth. Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman continue to anchor the offense, while rookies like Andy Pages step up. Yet, third base remains a glaring hole. Acquiring Nolan Arenado would send a message: The Dodgers won’t let temporary setbacks derail their championship chase.
Max Muncy’s struggles are a subplot in the Dodgers’ broader narrative of adaptability. Whether through a blockbuster trade or an internal resurgence, Los Angeles has the resources to turn weakness into strength. For Arenado, the chance to don Dodger blue isn’t just a homecoming—it’s a shot at legacy. And for the Dodgers, it’s a gamble that could cement their status as MLB’s ultimate juggernaut.
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