The Dodgers Max Muncy’s defensive struggles are discussed by Dave Roberts

The Los Angeles Dodgers are off to another strong start this season, but there are a few obvious flaws that are starting to show.

Max Muncy began 2025 with a relatively cold bat, but appears to be rectifying it as he hits. Prior to Tuesday’s 2-for-4 effort with a home run, he had a.840 OPS in the previous 14 days. One undeniable fault in his game is his eight errors at third base, which are tied for the second-most in MLB.

Manager Dave Roberts addressed Muncy’s defensive difficulties, but also expressed a desire for the All-Star veteran to improve.

“Sometimes it’s a range issue. Sometimes it’s a throwing action. “Sometimes it’s getting the ball out of the glove, and sometimes it’s just not catching it cleanly,” Roberts explained. “I know he is frustrated. I see him working every day. So that’s what I’m going to continue banking on. But, yes, he still needs to make the plays.”

The skipper was perplexed about how to resolve this issue.

“I don’t know that answer,” Roberts replied. “I believe he has an accurate throwing arm, but it is occasionally inaccurate. I believe he catches the ball cleanly most of the time, but not always. I believe he can reach his arm and remove the ball from his glove, but it does not always happen.

“I see a good defender.” But I understand statistics, numbers, and all of that. That’s why I’m as furious as he is, because I see a strong defender at third base.”

Muncy is in the first percentile of Outs Above Average, with a value of -7. He’s tied for last among qualified third basemen.

The two-time All-Star’s confidence should carry him over the remaining stretch of the season.

“I realize I haven’t displayed it. But I know I can be an effective defender. And so I just have to keep believing in myself and showing up and doing the job.”