Los Angeles Dodgers third baseman Max Muncy is enjoying a career resurgence this season, attributing his success to a major mindset shift and better health.
Muncy signed a Minor League contract with the Dodgers in 2017 after considering retirement. Since then, he has become one of the franchise's top home run hitters.
This year, he has hit 20 home runs and recently passed Ron Cey for second-most in Dodgers history, according to MLB.
com.
Reflecting on his journey, Muncy said he was just hoping for another chance to play and see where it took him, with no expectations other than to keep having fun.
He credits his turnaround to a change in mindset that allowed him to stop worrying about results and focus on enjoying the game.
"I had to stop worrying about the results," Muncy said.
"I just wanted to have fun playing baseball and have an opportunity to play the game that I grew up loving."
Muncy explained that before, he was so worried about things he couldn't control. "I took a total 180 on my mindset.
It allowed me to play stress free," he added.
Improved physical health is another key factor. "I don't feel like I'm where I should be as a hitter, honestly.
But the biggest thing this year is that I'm healthy," Muncy said.
He noted that in the last couple of years, he played well but dealt with many injuries. "This year, I've been healthy.
I feel that has been the biggest difference and being able to be out on the field more than where I was in the past," he said.
Beyond offense, Muncy has made significant strides defensively. He ranks fourth among Major League third basemen in defensive runs saved with eight.
"That's what I'm most proud about this year.
I'm finally playing defense at a level I always felt like I was able to do," Muncy said.
He credited hard work and learning to overcome the fear of making mistakes.
Muncy also credited his father for instilling his love of baseball and helping him reconsider retirement. "It was my dad.
He taught everything I knew about baseball. He taught me the love for the game," Muncy shared.
He said conversations with his father made him realize he didn't want to retire. "It's really thanks to him," Muncy added.
On his relationship with Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, Muncy said, "He means everything. He is like a father to me.
I have played for him for nine years now."
Muncy noted that Roberts has seen him at his highest and lowest. "He knows pretty much everything about me at this point.
I don't have enough good words to say about him. He means everything to me," Muncy said.
Looking back on his best moments with the Dodgers, Muncy emphasized team success. "Winning any of the World Series.
That's one of the reasons I play this game – to win and compete," he said.
"I don't care about my personal accolades. I care about being able to win as a team.
We've done that three times," Muncy said, highlighting the importance of championships.
