The Los Angeles Dodgers reached the World Series in 2017, but for one member of the roster this year, returning there was an all-new experience. After an unexpected trade during the offseason, Matt Kemp played a pivotal role for the Dodgers in 2018.
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A first time in the World Series started off well for Kemp as he took Boston Red Sox ace Chris Sale deep over the Green Monster at Fenway Park in his first at-bat in Game 1. It all went downhill from there though when the Dodgers were defeated in that game and then went on to lose the series in five games.
“I think everybody pretty much is hurt in the moment. This is tough,” Kemp said after the Red Sox celebrated at Dodger Stadium.
“This is something you always dream about, is being a World Series champ, and we fell short. I know these guys were here last year, so this is probably a little bit tougher for them. I’ve always dreamed about being in this position.”
While the Dodgers only won one game in the series, they had plenty of opportunities in each of the five that were played. “This was a battle. There were times when we had the game and we thought things were swinging our way, then they would answer,” Kemp said. “That’s what the World Series is. They got a lot of big hits and did what they needed to do to win.”
The 34-year-old had a resurgent year for the Dodgers, being named a starter for the National League in the All-Star Game. Kemp was arguably the club’s first-half MVP, carrying them offensively while other key players struggled and dealt with injuries.
He is still under contract for one more season, so barring any trades this offseason, he hopes to get back to the World Series and win it all next year. “Yeah, it’s successful but we definitely want more,” Kemp said.
“Getting here is not easy. I know a lot of people counted us out this year. We did what we needed to do to get back to where we belonged. Just have to get over the hump and win that last series of the season.”
