The Surprising Dodgers Player Making a Case for MVP in 2025

The Los Angeles Dodgers have long been one of the most successful and storied franchises in Major League Baseball. Known for their high expectations, star-studded rosters, and perennial playoff appearances, the Dodgers are a team that constantly seeks greatness. Over the years, players like Clayton Kershaw, Justin Turner, and Cody Bellinger have helped cement the team’s place in the upper echelons of baseball.

But as the 2025 season unfolds, it’s not one of these household names that has emerged as a surprise MVP candidate. Instead, it’s a lesser-known player who has turned heads with an explosive debut season. As of mid-May, the Dodgers’ surprising MVP candidate is none other than Max Muncy, the veteran infielder, who has turned what was expected to be a solid but unremarkable season into something truly remarkable.

Max Muncy’s Unexpected MVP Journey

Max Muncy’s story is far from ordinary. When he first arrived in Los Angeles in 2017, he was an afterthought in many ways—a utility player picked up from the Oakland Athletics’ minor league system. However, what began as a modest opportunity quickly evolved into one of the most remarkable career resurgences in recent memory. Muncy became known for his power, his clutch hitting, and his ability to play multiple infield positions. By 2018, he had already established himself as a key cog in the Dodgers lineup, contributing heavily to their World Series runs and postseason success.

Still, despite his success, Muncy never quite received the attention or recognition as some of his flashier teammates like Cody Bellinger or Mookie Betts. Even when Muncy made the All-Star team in 2019, he was often overshadowed by the bigger names in baseball. However, 2025 is different. Through his hot start to the season, Muncy has gone from being one of the team’s unsung leaders to being at the center of MVP discussions.

The Breakout Start to 2025

What has made Muncy’s 2025 campaign so special? For one, his performance in the opening weeks of the season has been nothing short of spectacular. As of mid-May, Muncy leads the Dodgers in virtually every major offensive category: batting average, home runs, RBIs, and OPS. He’s managed to improve upon his contact rate while still maintaining his elite power numbers, making him one of the most feared hitters in the league.

More impressive than his statistics, however, is how Muncy has delivered in key moments. He has consistently come through in clutch situations, driving in runs when his team needs him most. Whether it’s a game-winning home run in the late innings, a critical walk to load the bases, or a crucial RBI single, Muncy has proven that he can be counted on to perform in high-leverage situations. This ability to deliver when it matters most is exactly what makes him an MVP candidate.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Muncy’s 2025 campaign is his resilience. In the 2024 season, Muncy battled through injuries and a drop in power. The Dodgers had brought in younger talent to push for a World Series, and Muncy’s role seemed to diminish somewhat. He began the 2025 season with something to prove, and the fire he brought to the field has been apparent from the very first pitch of the season.

The Evolution of Muncy’s Game

What’s perhaps most intriguing about Muncy’s breakout season is the evolution of his game. While he was always known as a power hitter, the 2025 version of Muncy has refined his approach at the plate. He’s cut down on his strikeouts, making more contact while still maintaining his home run power. In fact, he’s hitting for a higher average than he ever has in his career, while still slugging at an elite rate.

Muncy has also worked hard to improve his defense, which has often been one of the more underrated aspects of his game. Though he’s always been a versatile defender—capable of playing both second and third base—he’s made noticeable strides in his fielding metrics in 2025. His improved defense, coupled with his offensive explosion, has made him a true two-way player, increasing his value and overall contributions to the Dodgers.

On top of that, Muncy’s leadership in the clubhouse cannot be understated. He’s not one to shy away from taking on the role of mentor for younger players like Gavin Lux, James Outman, and Miguel Vargas. His work ethic and dedication to improving his craft have earned him the respect of both his peers and his coaches. Muncy’s ability to set the tone for his teammates—especially in such a competitive environment—has played a major role in the Dodgers’ early success in 2025.

The Race for MVP

With all these improvements and achievements, Muncy’s name has started to pop up in MVP discussions. While there are still many games left in the season, Muncy’s early-season performance has put him squarely in the race for the National League MVP, a coveted award that has typically been claimed by players from larger-market teams like the New York Mets, Chicago Cubs, or St. Louis Cardinals.

Currently, Muncy finds himself competing with several other MVP-caliber players. Atlanta Braves superstar Ronald Acuña Jr. and San Diego Padres first baseman Juan Soto have both been putting up outstanding numbers. Acuña, in particular, is having a monster season, combining power and speed in a way that few players in history have done. Meanwhile, Soto is continuing to showcase his impeccable plate discipline and power-hitting ability.

However, what sets Muncy apart from these elite names is the combination of his offensive and defensive contributions. While Acuña and Soto are undeniably great players, they have not yet shown the same level of improvement in their fielding metrics that Muncy has in 2025. Additionally, Muncy’s ability to be a consistent force at the plate—while still showing a more disciplined and balanced approach—has helped him stand out among the pack.

Of course, it’s not just his offensive and defensive numbers that make Muncy a serious MVP contender. His leadership and ability to elevate those around him have added significant value to his overall candidacy. The Dodgers have long been one of the most dominant teams in baseball, and much of that has to do with the strong culture they’ve built in the clubhouse. Muncy’s presence has been a crucial part of that culture, and it could very well be a deciding factor in the MVP race.

Why Muncy is the Underdog MVP Candidate

Max Muncy’s MVP candidacy is so compelling precisely because of the underdog story behind it. The MVP race is often dominated by flashy superstars who receive significant media attention and hype. Players like Acuña, Soto, and even Dodgers teammate Mookie Betts fit that mold. But Muncy, who has flown under the radar for much of his career, is quietly putting together one of the best seasons of his career.

The perception that Muncy is simply a “role player” or “utility guy” might work to his advantage. He’s not the kind of player that people expect to carry a team or dominate the headlines, and yet here he is, making his case for the most prestigious individual award in the game. There’s something poetic about the way Muncy’s season has unfolded—a player who was doubted, discounted, and overlooked now stands poised to take home one of the highest honors in all of professional sports.

Additionally, Muncy’s ability to remain consistent through the ebbs and flows of a long season is one of his greatest strengths. We’ve seen MVP-caliber players slump at different points during the season, whether due to injury or fatigue. But Muncy has been remarkably steady, hitting home runs, driving in runs, and staying productive in virtually every game. If he can keep up this level of consistency, he’ll be tough to ignore in the race for the MVP.

 A Story of Redemption and Excellence

In a season where much of the focus has been on the usual MVP candidates, Max Muncy has provided a refreshing and inspiring story. He’s a player who has fought through adversity, improved his game, and become the type of leader that every championship-caliber team needs. Through a combination of hard work, perseverance, and undeniable talent, Muncy has made a strong case for why he should be the National League’s Most Valuable Player in 2025.

While the season is far from over, Muncy’s performance to this point is a testament to the power of redemption. A player once seen as a utility piece is now vying for the most prestigious individual accolade in baseball. Whether or not he ultimately wins the MVP, Muncy’s 2025 season will be remembered as one of the most improbable, yet inspiring, stories of the year.

This expanded article gives a comprehensive look at Max Muncy’s remarkable 2025 season and his unexpected rise as an MVP candidate.