Dodgers Rout Cardinals Behind Muncy’s Return from IL

By: Christian Monreal

After weeks of offensive struggles, the Los Angeles Dodgers reminded fans Tuesday night why they’re defending World Series champions. Hosting the St. Louis Cardinals at Dodger Stadium, LA’s lineup received a major boost with the return of infielder Max Muncy from the injured list. Coming off a narrow 3–2 loss on Monday, the Dodgers were determined to turn the tide — especially star shortstop Mookie Betts, whose recent slump had been emblematic of the team’s woes.

Muncy wasted no time making his presence felt. In the first inning, he jumped on the first pitch from Cardinals starter Miles Mikolas, sending it deep into the right-field pavilion for a two-run homer. Two innings later, déjà vu — another Mikolas fastball, another two-run blast, this time stretching LA’s lead to 4–2. “Max just takes a professional at-bat,” said Dodgers manager Dave Roberts. “He brings that presence in the middle of the order and took a lot of great swings tonight.” Muncy finished with a dominant four-hit performance, including two home runs and four RBIs.

The night also marked a step toward resurgence for Betts. After a 0-for-22 skid, the crowd erupted as he broke through with a three-hit game, including a double in the third inning. “I’ve just been trying to re-learn myself and go back to the basics,” Betts said. “I know Dodger Stadium’s behind me — it’s been a beautiful thing.” While encouraged by the performance, Betts emphasized the need for “more consistency” moving forward.

Fueled by Muncy’s fireworks and a Teoscar Hernández homer, the Dodgers’ bats exploded for 12 runs in a 12–6 rout of the Cardinals. Sitting atop the NL West, LA will look to build on this offensive outburst as they continue their push for another division crown.