With the MLB trade deadline approaching at the end of July, the los Angeles Dodgers continue to toy with the idea of adding another big arm to the rotation for the second half of the season. Already armed with one of the best rotations in the league with Clayton Kershaw and Zach Greinke, the ownership group has no issues with paying another All-Star to join the roster. However, could it cost them an outfielder in the process?
If the Dodgers are going to make a trade for another top arm, they likely will have to give up a bat in the process. That is ok with Matt Kemp. The centerfielder is not immune to the trade rumors surrounding his name in recent months as the 2014 season continues to be a roller coaster one for the star. According to Kemp's agent Dave Stewart, the outfielder would not turn down a move if it meant more playing time.
"Whatever they want to do we're favorable to, as long as it gives him an opportunity to play every day," Stewart said, via FOX Sports. "He'd like to eventually go back to center field. He's not opposed to right or left. But his hope at some point is to get back to center."
Kemp is currently fighting for field time on a crowded roster. Between Andre Ethier , Carl Crawford, Yasiel Puig and Kemp, manager Don Mattingly has to adjust the lineup each day. Puig is the mainstay meaning the remaining players are shifted in and out. Add in prospects like Joc Pederson and Scott Van Slyke and someone is likely to get traded before the July 31 cutoff.
Kemp has already expressed his unhappiness with the Dodgers. He used to be the resident center fielder, but injuries and inconsistencies have caused him to be shifted to left field when he is actually in the lineup, something that is no longer a guarantee. If a trade means more playing time back at his natural position, then he is open to it.
The Dodgers have been looking at several pitchers for help, the latest being Jonathan Papelbon. Mark Saxon of ESPNLosAngeles.com is reporting that the Dodgers like the idea of getting more bullpen help and Papelbon might be easy to acquire. They have also been linked to high-profile stars like David Price and Jon Lester. Kemp could easily be sent packing to either team in the near future. Kemp's contract is not exactly team friendly, so the Dodgers might find this move easier said than done.
