The Los Angeles Dodgers have two days to try and trade Matt Kemp before being forced to wait until the offseason to move the disgruntled outfielder. According to Ken Rosenthal, the Dodgers would "kill" to trade Kemp prior to the deadline in hopes of getting a starting pitcher in return, but the outfielder does not appear to hold that kind of weight on the market after numerous injuries and inconsistencies over the past season. However, the Boston Red Sox are showing some interest, but are asking for more than just the outfielder in a deal.
According to Gordon Edes of the Boston Globe, the Red Sox are showing interest in acquiring Kemp, but want more cash in the deal and a full health report on the outfielder. So far, Boston is the only team showing serious interest in Kemp and if Los Angeles is serious about dealing now instead of later, they might have to give in to the demands. The Red Sox have trade history with the Dodgers so this deal could actually get done. It is not a surprise that they are requesting more from the Dodgers than just Kemp considering his value is certainly not what it used to be.
The Dodgers could try and include Kemp in a package for pitcher John Lackey. Rosenthal is reporting that the Dodgers are taking a look at Lackey after their pursuits for players like Cole Hamels and David Price have gone nowhere. Lackey is certainly not as dominating as either of those pitchers, but he would come cheaper. The Dodgers might be able to swing a deal where they could get Lackey in exchange for Kemp.
The availability of Lackey could be determined by what happens with Jon Lester in the next 48 hours. Boston and the pitcher have been in contract talks that have gone nowhere. Lester wants more money than the team is willing to give, making him tradable. If Lester remains on the roster, Lackey could be traded. However, if Lester is gone it is likely that Lackey stays in Boston.
The Dodgers have been in the market for a starting pitcher for some time now. They have taken a look at several top arms, but have not found someone at the price they are willing to pay. As far as Kemp goes, the likelihood the outfielder is traded is slim. The New York Yankees have been linked to him, but other than that, interest is non-existent.
