Dodgers Rumors: The four players most likely to be traded this season

Matt Kemp

Please, no, my heart. The above photo is the first new picture of Kemp on the Los Angeles Dodgers all suited up. My heart cannot deal a Kemp trade.

However, Kemp’s eventual departure was evident the second the Dodgers re-acquired him. For many, this is a matter of not if, but when. It is for the best.

The Los Angeles Dodgers acquired Matt Kemp in a salary dump move that sent Adrian Gonzalez, Scott Kazmir and Brandon McCarthy to the Atlanta Braves. This was obviously a move to get under the luxury tax (which it did) and could be a move for the 2018 off-season.

With Clayton Kershaw potentially entering a contract year (depending on if he opts out) the Dodgers are going to need to free up as much money as possible. Kemp, who is owed $43 million over the next two seasons, is the first to go. With such a stacked free agent class, including Bryce Harper, this becomes pivotal.

However, I would not mind if Kemp stuck around and became a decent contributor to the Dodgers. He, of course, brings back nostalgia and if he is contributing, why not keep him? Chances are, though, the Dodgers are likely still actively pursuing deals.