Dodgers predicted to cut ties with $10M 3-time World Series champion, longest tenured player

Hunter Cookston

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Dodgers predicted to cut ties with $10M 3-time World Series champion, longest tenured player image

The Los Angeles Dodgers are aiming to win their third consecutive World Series title in 2026. With a roster already built to contend, the Dodgers haven’t needed to make many major offseason additions and are already looking ahead to another title run. One familiar face returning is Max Muncy.

“His return will also help keep a key part of the club’s veteran core intact, bringing back a player who — in the wake of Clayton Kershaw’s retirement — has been with the Dodgers longer than anybody else,” LA Times’ Jack Harris wrote.

However, the Dodgers are likely to move on from Muncy after the 2026 season. What was once the core that helped turn the franchise around is quickly aging, forcing the organization to consider getting younger in the near future. Still, Muncy has made it clear he would like to finish his career in Los Angeles.

“I don’t think it’s any secret that I would like to retire here. I’ve made that very well known. In terms of how that works out, I can’t worry about that right now,” Muncy said.

Another injury-plagued season could accelerate the Dodgers’ timeline to look elsewhere at third base. Dodgers Way’s Jordan Campbell believes 2026 should mark the end of Muncy’s tenure with the team.

“Rather than bring Muncy back, 2026 should serve as his farewell tour in Los Angeles. He doesn't have to retire, but he certainly shouldn't be the Dodgers' starting third baseman come 2027 (and beyond). Besides, the reality is that for as great as the Dodgers' World Series run has been over the last two years, their core is only getting older,” Campbell wrote.

This is the harsh reality surrounding Muncy. He is aging and missing more games than he did earlier in his career. Ultimately, the Dodgers may believe they are better positioned moving forward without him beyond next season.

It’s never easy to say goodbye to a franchise cornerstone, but it may be the best decision for the organization. Unless Muncy retires after 2026, his future likely won’t be with the Dodgers.

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