Matt Kemp Says Goodbye To Dodgers Organization, Fans & Teammates

Matt Kemp took to Instagram following the trade to the Cincinnati Reds earlier in the week to thank the Dodgers. Kemp spent 10 seasons in Los Angeles dating back to when he began his big league career at age 21.

Moreover, the message was genuine and heartfelt. It was Kemp in his essence – a player who has grown to be very authentic over time.

Here is a screenshot off Instagram:

The message was short and sweet.

It was a dream come true to put this uniform back on. Thanks to the @dodgers, my teammates and all of the incredible fans for a year to remember.

Nevertheless, it was a decade to remember. While Kemp may someday sign a short contract to retire a Dodger – if this was the last time he is a part of the organization – he went out on top.

Kemp’s play and spirit energized the Dodgers during a slow offensive beginning to the 2018 season. He made the All-Star team, but logged just 182 plate appearances in the second half compared to 324 in the first.

In all, Kemp was a .290 hitter with an .818 OPS for the Dodgers. Equally important, he was voted 2018 Comeback Player of the Year in the NL by his fellow players.

I speak for Dodgers Nation when I reciprocate the thanks to Matt Kemp. The pleasure was all of ours.