Dodgers News: Kasten Says Kemp Is ‘Completely Recovered’

Outfielder Matt Kemp was the National League MVP runner-up in 2011 but has yet to produce another season like that due to injuries.

The 29-year-old started off 2012 about as strong as one could start a season before succumbing to hamstring injuries and an eventual shoulder injury after crashing into the wall at Coors Field in Colorado. Kemp was limited to just 106 games and  last season, he was hampered even more by hamstring, shoulder and an eventual ankle injury that kept him out of the postseason. The slugging outfielder participated in just 73 games and hit only six home runs.

According to MLB Network’s official PR twitter account, Los Angeles Dodgers’ president Stan Kasten gave an update on Kemp’s status:

#Dodgers‘ Kasten on Matt Kemp: “He’s completely recovered from the various ailments that’ve held him back the last 2 yrs.” @CHConfidential

— MLB Network PR (@MLBNetworkPR) January 21, 2014

Kemp underwent minor surgery to strengthen his shoulder and another surgery to repair his ankle. He’s been rehabbing since October and it’s been earlier reported that he wold be ready around Spring Training. Kasten also said that although Kemp isn’ot ready right now, he will be ready by next month’s report date to Camelback Ranch.

The Gold Glove outfielder was the subject of trade rumors this off-season, given that the team has four quality outfielders for three outfield spots. Some believe that if he shows he’s healthy during the spring that some teams may consider offering the Dodgers a package for Kemp’s services. Andre Ethier has also been mentioned as a possible trade candidate and could be dealt if Kemp is indeed healthy. After his 2011 season, Kemp signed an eight-year, $160 million extension with the team and is one of the many core players that the Dodgers have locked up.

A healthy Kemp could transform the Dodgers from a contender to a favorite for a World Series title this October.

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