Happy Birthday Matt Kemp

Matt Kempturns 28 today! The Bison has been a Dodger now for seven seasons since he debuted on May 28, 2006. He may have been voted second to Ryan Braun for the 2011 National League Most Valuable Player Award., but he is always the #1 M.V.P. in our hearts.

Happy Birthday Matt Kemp!

Matt Kemp holds his bat in the Dodger dugout on Opening Day 2012. Photo: Stacie Wheeler

Kemp has been delighting Dodger fans with his five-tool talent. Not only can Kemp hit for power and average, but he has speed on the basepath, agility in centerfield, and an arm to be reckoned with.

Unfortunately a hamstring injury sidelined Matt for a lengthly time this season. A couple of scary crashes into the outfield wall at Coors Field also spurred a shoulder injury and a banged up knee. Even though the frustration of not being able to play and the heartache of injury left Kemp’s season intermittant, we all know what a hard worker and dedicated athelete he is. Matt wants to win a world championship as a Dodger, and we will be there to watch and root for him as he makes both his and our dream a reality. Matt Kemp is an inspiration on and off the field. He’s a true leader who cheered on his teammates when he was disabled, welcomed the new players to the team, and remained optimistic down the stretch.

As a fan, I appreciate his dedication to both the team and the city of Los Angeles. Instead of testing the waters of free agency this past winter, Matt chose to stay in L.A. and signed a eight-year contract. This reflected his desire to continue his career in Blue for many years to come. With the right choices and additions, the new ownership can create a Dodger Dynasty. Matt Kemp is the centerpiece of that dream team. We are very lucky to have many years of Bison Blasts to come.

Happy birthday #27!

We are Matt Kemp’s fans through thick and thin! Photo: Chris Humphreys-US PRESSWIRE

Matt Kemp sacrifices his body to make spectacular plays in centerfield. Photo: Kirby Lee/Image of Sport-US PRESSWIRE