The Los Angeles Dodgers have already begun preparations for another postseason run in 2026. They have picked up the options of third basemen Max Muncy and left-handed reliever Alex Vesia, according to Fabian Ardaya of Athletic. Both were integral pieces of the last two World Series wins.
Dodgers Pick up Options for Two Important Pieces
Source: Dodgers picking up Max Muncy’s $10 million club option for 2026. No surprise there.
— Fabian Ardaya (@FabianArdaya) November 6, 2025
Source: Dodgers also picked up Alex Vesia’s $3.55 million club option for 2026. Another no-brainer.
— Fabian Ardaya (@FabianArdaya) November 6, 2025
The Max Factor
Max Muncy missed some time this season with a strained oblique and a bone bruise in his knee. His presence in the lineup may be underrated, but it cannot be overstated. The Dodgers were almost 20 games over .5oo when he was healthy, and had a losing record when he wasn’t. Muncy hit a .243 batting average this year with 19 home runs in 100 games. His continued knowledge of the strike zone was also displayed as he walked over 15 percent of the time.
When it Matters Most
Not typically known for his defense, Muncy made several stellar plays with his glove at the hot corner that preserved slim leads in games the Dodgers had to win. His power was evident as well, as he hit several home runs for an offense that struggled to score in the postseason. Muncy’s biggest swing came in Game 7 of the World Series. His solo home run in the eighth cut the Toronto Blue Jays’ lead and made the Dodgers’ comeback possible.
High-Leverage Lefty
Alex Vesia brought stability to a bullpen that sorely needed it. He had a 3.02 Earned Run Average in 2025. He was at the top of Manager Dave Roberts’ trust tree, as evidenced by his 59 and 2/3 innings pitched. Vesia struck out almost 35 percent of the batters he faced. He was relied on heavily in the postseason as well, with seven appearances. Unfortunately, he was unable to participate in the World Series this year due to a family matter.
With these moves, the Dodgers are demonstrating that where they spend their money is just as important as how much they spend. Back-to-back rings seem to prove it.
Main Photo Credits: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
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