How Max Muncy transformed from an released minor leaguer into a three-time World Series champion.

How Max Muncy transformed from an released minor leaguer into a three-time World Series champion.
Image: Intellect (generated)

In short: After being released by the Oakland Athletics in 2017, Max Muncy faced an uncertain future. Yet, he reinvented himself with the Los Angeles Dodgers, becoming a cornerstone of three championship teams. His journey from a minor league contract to setting franchise home run records is a masterclass in professional baseball resilience.

Born in 1990, Maxwell Steven Muncy began his professional path after being selected by the Oakland Athletics in the 2012 MLB draft. His early career was marked by steady progress through the minor leagues, but after struggling to secure a permanent major league role, he was released by the Athletics in April 2017. This pivotal moment led him to sign a minor league deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers later that same month, a move that would redefine his trajectory.

Muncy’s impact was immediate upon his 2018 call-up. He quickly established himself as a power threat, setting a franchise record by hitting his 20th home run in just 183 at-bats. His versatility became a hallmark of his play, as he capably shifted between first, second, and third base. By 2020, he was a key contributor to the Dodgers' World Series title, a feat he would repeat in 2024 and 2025. His postseason performance has been particularly notable, including setting a new Dodgers franchise record for career postseason home runs in 2025.

Beyond his power, Muncy has demonstrated remarkable adaptability. In 2025, he became one of only four players in MLB history to record a hit in five different countries. When faced with an early-season slump that same year, he notably switched to wearing glasses, which correlated with an immediate improvement in his hitting. By August 2026, he solidified his place in team history by breaking the record for the most career home runs hit at Dodger Stadium, cementing his legacy as one of the franchise's most impactful modern players.

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