Matt Kemp gets biggest contract extension in Los Angeles Dodgers’ history – MLB News
The Los Angeles Dodgers on Friday, November 18 got Matt Kemp’s contract extended for eight years with a considerably large sum of $160 million. This is the biggest deal in Dodgers’ history.
Previously it was Kevin Brown whose seven-year $105 million contract got media attention in 1998. But irrespective of the amount of money involved, it was retaining the centre-fielder Matt Kemp that preceded all other considerations.
Kemp, who himself wished to be part of the team, expressed his excitement in Friday’s press conference, citing the love he had for the club and the fans and the happiness to be able to stay in Los Angeles for another eight years.
He said, "I love this city, the fans and just to be a part of this as a Dodgers player. Like Derek Jeter with the Yankees, I would like to spend the rest of my career here and be part of a dynasty and see this thing grow. I know we have the opportunity to
have something special here."
Like Kemp, those who were involved in the deal were thoroughly buoyed. The Dodgers’ general manger Ned Colletti called it ‘a great day’ for not only the Dodgers but also for Kemp and the club’s future.
Colletti had earlier clearly stated it would be the Dodgers priority to secure the centre-fielder. Dodgers’ owner Frank McCourt, on the other hand, was full of pride and stated that it was a wonderful thing.
"I've kind of watched you grow up -- we've had our conversations from time to time, and I just want to tell you I'm proud of you," McCourt said. "You've really, really seized an opportunity, and it's a wonderful thing.”
Among other things, Matt Kemp has the rare distinction of being among the seventh player in the history of Major League to be in the top rank in the season in batting average, homers, stolen bases and RBIs.
Since 1941 when Dolph Camilli of the Los Angeles Dodgers led the National League in homers, Matt Kemp was the only player to achieve this milestone, filling the Dodgers with pride.
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