Will the Real Matt Kemp Please Stand UP, Please Stand UP?!
In response to the attitudes expressed by Dodgers outfielder, Matt Kemp, during the season and sentiments expressed recently:
Reference: http://nesn.com/2014/07/agent-matt-kemp-not-opposed-to-trade-wants-to-play-in-center-field/
Dear Matt Kemp:
It has been very unfortunate and also sad to watch your demise. A few years ago you were the game's best player and now you aren't even the fifth best on your team. You have also been relegated to platoon work in Left Field. We, fans and management, would love nothing more than to see you play everyday in center field but your arm, movement and batting have sort of shown otherwise.
The reality is that in yester-year's baseball economy you would not have gotten close to the 20M per. But, you represent the changing economic landscape where teams are now willing to lock up and pay their stars before, or going into, their prime years.
Thus, no one could have predicted your unfortunate demise. As a result, players like Puig and Van Slyke have had their opportunities and have shown to be BETTER than you. So, what is Coletti supposed to do with a $20M per yr guy that hasn't produced nor been healthy since you signed your current contract?
I'm actually impressed with the Dodgers in that they have not forced you into the lineup because of your $ contract. Right now, you're just "a guy.". You have shown and discussed your disgust about the outfield yet the Dodgers have needed every last outfielder due to injury. In today's game, a championship team NEEDS to be loaded with all-star caliber talent to have a chance at the ring. Of course there ARE exceptions to that rule.
This attitude by you has shown a lack of respect and appreciation for TEAM and cohesion. That, combined with your poor performance, shows me that trading you might be the best option. Your value has been diminished but has increased slightly due to some form of production of late. Keep doing what you are doing so we (Dodgers) can trade you for more than a bag of peanuts. We are willing to trade you as long as you hang in there, play hard, and TRY to put the TEAM ahead of YOU. We will call the Yankees as they are known to be gluttons for self serving prima donnas, but do THEY have room? Pirates? Nope etc.
You see, Matty, everyone is aware of your demise except you. Perhaps you suck it up, become more of a team player and ride this out to a WS ring if ALL goes according to plan. Better yet, in borrowing from a now infamous Dennis Green quote: BE who we thought you were! Be the REAL Matt Kemp and go earn and take the everyday CF position rather than talk about it.
It's sad to think you would rather play everyday in CF, on a different team, over winning a WS. Meanwhile, the Dodgers also have 2 prospects that are better than you so, quite frankly, you won't be missed
#harshreality _
_The Real Chauncey BigUpps
