Los Angeles Dodgers third baseman Max Muncy has activated a unique incentive structure within his contract that offers substantial bonuses for reaching plate appearance milestones. After surpassing 400 plate appearances, Muncy earns $15,000 for each appearance from 401 through 550. Additionally, his 2027 salary increases by $20,000 per plate appearance from 401 to 500, and by $35,000 per plate appearance from 501 to 550.
This structure means that each plate appearance between 401 and 500 holds a combined value of $35,000, while appearances 501 through 550 are valued at $50,000 each. If Muncy reaches all 150 available incentive plate appearances, he stands to gain $2.25 million in bonuses for the current season and an additional $3.75 million added to his 2027 salary, totaling $6 million in additional value.
His 2027 base salary is $7 million, which could be pushed to $10.75 million with these escalators. The Dodgers also hold a $10 million club option for Muncy's 2028 season with a $3 million buyout.
This arrangement is notable for a player who has previously accepted team-friendly deals, prioritizing remaining with a championship contender. Muncy reportedly left money on the table in previous contract negotiations to stay with the Dodgers.
Similar incentive structures exist for other players in Major League Baseball. Ketel Marte of the Arizona Diamondbacks can earn up to $2.5 million in future salary by reaching plate appearance milestones, and Vinnie Pasquantino of the Kansas City Royals has provisions for his 2027 salary to increase based on plate appearances. However, Muncy's contract distinguishes itself with its granular, per-plate-appearance payout structure for the latter part of the season, effectively turning a set number of appearances into a running monetary incentive.