Abstract: The present application includes a plunger assembly having an internally coupled clutch assembly within a cage. The clutch retainer assembly is free from direct impact with objects at the bottom of the well that may cause damage to the clutch assembly. The clutch assembly includes a multi-piece clutch to contact a stem within the cage. One or more retainers are used to maintain the orientation and alignment of the clutch within the cage. The cage includes a linear taper to increase wall thicknesses and further includes one or more flow cuts along the exterior surface of the wall to increase the volume of fluid that can enter through the one or more ports in the cage.