Max Muncy's Path to Becoming a Key Player for the A's
In the sun-drenched fields of Mesa, Arizona, the Athletics are watching Max Muncy closely. Known for his impressive hitting skills, Muncy has been lighting up Spring Training, leading the team in batting average (.393), on-base percentage (.514), slugging (.750), and OPS (1.264). But for Muncy to secure an everyday role with the A’s this season, his defensive abilities at third base need to match his offensive prowess.
Manager Mark Kotsay emphasized, “Offensively, he’s more than ready to contribute at the Major League level. Our biggest focus right now is on the defense.” The A’s are committed to developing Muncy’s skills at the hot corner, a position that’s still relatively new to him.
Drafted as a natural shortstop from Thousand Oaks High School in 2021, Muncy is adapting to third base, a position he only began playing regularly last season. With Jacob Wilson and Jeff McNeil locking down shortstop and second base, respectively, third base is Muncy’s best shot at a starting role. So far this spring, he’s been exclusively playing third and designated hitter in all 14 games.
Muncy acknowledges the challenges, saying, “It’s still fairly new. Over time, it’ll become normal.
That’s why I’m going through the growing pains right now.” His work with A’s infield coach Bobby Crosby is crucial as he learns the nuances of third base, including different angles and reaction times.
Despite the focus on defense, Muncy hasn’t let his offensive game slip. After recovering from a hand injury last season, he used the Arizona Fall League as a testing ground for his swing.
“I told myself going into the Fall League, ‘I don’t care what I hit here,’” Muncy explained. His experiments with swing adjustments and thought processes have paid off, fueling his strong performance in the Cactus League.
A consistent presence of Muncy’s bat in the lineup would bolster an already formidable A’s offense. However, his ability to be a reliable defender at third is key to his role on the team. The Athletics are patient, recognizing that with each game, Muncy is growing more comfortable and confident in his new position.
As the season approaches, all eyes are on Muncy to see if he can solidify his spot and contribute to what promises to be an exciting year for the A’s.