Los Angeles Dodgers Matt Kemp continues remarkable return
By David Hill
Acquired by the Los Angeles Dodgers as part of a salary dump, Mat Kemp may be one of the biggest surprises of the Spring.
When the Los Angeles Dodgers brought Matt Kemp back from the Atlanta Braves, expectations were minimal. The Dodgers had unloaded a great deal of salary, seeking to get below the luxury tax. Kemp was simply a way to even out the money, a player that was not expected to be long for the Dodgers.
However, he was still part of the roster once Spring Training began. Even then, little was expected of Kemp, especially given the Dodgers crowded outfield. However, Kemp has impressed thus far, posting a .282/.320/.587 batting line with four homers and eight RBI heading into Friday’s action. Now, not only is he seemingly a lock for the Opening Day roster, but he may be hitting third in the Dodgers lineup.
Matt Kemp is probably gonna bat third for the Dodgers on Opening Day. What a time to be alive.
— Andy McCullough (@ByMcCullough) March 22, 2018
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It is a remarkable turnaround for Kemp, who was one of the worst players in the majors last season. His .276/.318/.463 batting line, with 19 homers and 23 doubles, was palatable, but that was not where Kemp’s story ended. He was amongst the worst defensive players in the game, costing the Braves 14 runs in his 103 games in left. Those defensive woes left the outfielder as being worth -1.3 WAR, and helping Braves left fielders be the least valuable collection of talent at the position.
However, back in the comfort of the Dodgers, Kemp has been a pleasant surprise. His bat has come alive once more, as he is hitting the ball with authority. Yes, it is the small sample size of Spring Training, but there is an optimism about the former All Star that was not there before.
It may well be too much to expect that Kemp returns to his former glory. His days as an All Star, and a Gold Glove winner, are likely far behind him. And yet, there is the chance that he could help the Dodgers going forward, a statement that was unthinkable just months ago.
The Los Angeles Dodgers are considering Matt Kemp to bat third on Opening Day. He has turned back the clock, finding himself once more with the Dodgers.