The Los Angeles Dodgers may be looking for a new third baseman in the near future, and it's not just because of Max Muncy's age. While Muncy's $10 million option for the 2026 season was a no-brainer after his impressive turnaround in 2025, the team should also be considering a potential replacement. With Muncy turning 36 next year, it's the perfect time for the Dodgers to get younger at the position. But here's where it gets controversial: the free-agent market for third basemen next offseason is not deep. Bo Bichette seems likely to opt out of his deal with the New York Mets, but that's about it. However, the Red Sox and Pirates have recently made moves that could clear the path for the Dodgers to land their next third baseman. The Red Sox traded for Caleb Durbin, and the Pirates signed Marcell Ozuna. Both teams were in trade talks with the Houston Astros involving All-Star third baseman Isaac Paredes. The Astros are looking to clear their infield logjam, and while moving aging first baseman Christian Walker may be the desired option, Paredes being traded feels far more likely. The Dodgers should now enter the picture. Los Angeles certainly has the financial means to take on Paredes' $9.3 million salary in 2026, and they have the pitching and outfield prospects to get the Astros' attention. Even if the option was declined, the Dodgers (or any team) would still hold his rights due to the arbitration process. So, the Dodgers wouldn't need to look to free agency to replace Muncy; they would already have an option in-house. Paredes' recent agreement with the Astros includes a club option, and he could spell the 35-year-old veteran at third base when going up against a left-handed pitcher. For his career, Paredes has a wRC+ of 131 against southpaws. A move like this is the type of forward thinking that has kept the Dodgers at the top of Major League Baseball, and should be considered by Andrew Friedman and Co. before Opening Day.
