Dodgers Roundtable: The Start of Spring Training

1.) It looks like Matt Kemp will be staying with the Dodgers, and will work to earn a spot in the lineup. Though the Dodgers have multiple options for the outfield, would you like to see Kemp in left field for the first Spring Training game? If not, who should start instead?

Jamaal:

I’m ok with Matt Kemp starting Game 1 of Spring Training because, in the grand scheme of things, those games don’t count. Because of his defensive liabilities, I’d be more worried if he was starting Game 1 of the regular season or heaven forbid, the NLDS.

Jason:

Yeah, why not. The Dodgers need to figure out what exactly they are going to get from this “new and improved” Matt Kemp. It seems like every offseason he is in the best shape of his life and every season the defense just gets worse.

I love Matt Kemp and if the Dodgers cannot find a suitable trade, why not give him a role? If he can produce at least let it ride out. We will see though, I think Spring Training will be a huge indication of what exactly LA can get out of Kemp.

Sarah:

I would like to see Kemp earn a spot in left. He’s a Dodger, he’s always been a Dodger, and I think that he deserves the chance to help the Dodgers win. Andrew Toles probably won’t be joining the team when they head back to LA for Opening Day. Though I do believe Toles will be the best option for left, it’s not an option right now, and Matt Kemp has the potential to be great for LA.

The Dodgers don’t need to do anything to get fans to come to the games, their record last season took care of that, but fans will make the journey to Dodger Stadium just to see Kemp play again. I think that his presence alone will have a positive impact on the team.