The Los Angeles Dodgers' World Series victory last October marked a cathartic moment for the team after a long wait for a title, but it was the trials faced during the season that resonated most with the players. Injuries plagued the roster, with key players like Freddie Freeman and Shohei Ohtani battling serious ailments throughout the postseason. Despite not being at full strength, the team pushed through, with many players fighting through injuries that would have sidelined them in the regular season.

Max Muncy described the experience as a "battle of attrition," while manager Dave Roberts noted the significant sacrifices made by players like Michael Kopech and Alex Vesia, who contributed vital performances despite injuries. The resilience displayed during this grueling journey not only defined their championship run but also forged deeper bonds among teammates. As the players look back, the shared experience of overcoming adversity has added layers of meaning to their triumph.

Max Muncy's journey through injury and recovery has reshaped his outlook heading into the 2025 season. After beginning the year strong with a .263 batting average and nine home runs, an oblique injury sidelined him for three months, leading to doubts about his career. However, Muncy’s return was marked by a .925 OPS down the stretch, helping the Dodgers reach the World Series. His health restored, he emphasized a newfound appreciation for the game, particularly as trade rumors linked him to Nolan Arenado.

This offseason, he committed to improving defensively while working on his swing mechanics. His early spring training performance reflects that commitment, as he reached base in eight of his first 11 plate appearances. Muncy’s resilience and focused mindset may be crucial as he navigates a pivotal contract year with the Dodgers.

In a historic spring training game, the Dodgers faced the Cubs while showcasing Major League Baseball's automated ball-strike challenge system for the first time. Manager Dave Roberts humorously advised Max Muncy to refrain from challenging calls due to his reputation for disagreeing with umpires. However, Muncy's chance came when Cubs pitcher Cody Poteet challenged a call against him. The technology confirmed a strike, leaving Muncy struck out looking, marking a significant moment in baseball history.

Despite mixed feelings about the ABS system, Muncy expressed intrigue, noting its potential to enhance accuracy without significantly impacting game pace. Players will adapt strategies around this system, aiming to mitigate its effects on games. Roberts left the door open for its integration into regular-season play, emphasizing the importance of making accurate calls in critical moments.

In a historic moment during the Chicago Cubs' spring training opener against the Los Angeles Dodgers, pitcher Cody Poteet initiated the first challenge on a ball/strike call in Major League Baseball history. This occurred when Poteet believed a fastball to Max Muncy was a strike, but plate umpire Tony Randazzo called it a ball. Following the new spring training rules, Poteet tapped his head to signal for a review, leading to a reversal of the call, putting Muncy at 0-2 before striking out.

This spring, MLB is trialing an automatic ball and strike system, allowing up to two challenges per game, which can be retained if successful. Players like Muncy have expressed interest in the system's potential for implementation in the future, emphasizing the importance of accuracy in every call.