Dodgers News: Howie Kendrick Bringing Consistency and Professionalism
The Los Angeles Dodgers left Chavez Ravine for a six-game road trip that got off on the wrong foot with a loss to the Philadelphia Phillies on Tuesday night. The series is of note for Jimmy Rollins, who returns to Philadelphia for the first time since being traded, and it comes on the heels of another Dodger getting a look at his former team.
With the Dodgers just completing a three-game series with the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, Howie Kendrick stood across from the team he spent nine seasons playing for.
While some analysts would suggest there was to be an adjustment period for the second baseman after spending his entire career in the American League, Kendrick brushed that aside the notion and said he’s focused on contributing via Lyle Spencer of MLB.com:
I just play the game,” Kendrick stated. “Just go out on the field and play baseball. I’m here to play the game the right way and help my team win any way I can.”
When asked about the struggles of baseball and figuring the game out, Kendrick remained positive about trusting the process:
You’ve got to trust yourself; that’s the biggest thing. You’ve got to ride it out when you’re having a tough time, knowing you’ll turn it around. I’ve been fortunate to play with some great teammates and learn from them.”
During his first season with the Dodgers, Kendrick has seen the struggles that some of his younger teammates have dealt with and offered support:
I try to tell young guys who are struggling that it’s OK, that two or three years from now, they’ll look back on their struggles and say, ‘I had to go through that to figure things out.’ It’s all part of the process.”
In 100 games played this season, the ever-consistent Kendrick is batting .285/.333/.409, with nine home runs and 45 RBIs. Not only has he contributed at the plate, Kendrick’s also played a steady second base.
With the Dodgers including Hector Olivera as part of their package in a trade with the Atlanta Braves, it may be a signal of their intent to re-sign Kendrick after the 2015 season.
[divide]Andre Ethier On Walk-Off Home Run
