While much of the attention revolved around Yasiel Puig, the Cincinnati Reds’ recent three-game series against the Los Angeles Dodgers additionally marked the return of Kyle Farmer, Matt Kemp and Alex Wood. Though, Wood remains on the 10-day injured list as he recovers from back trouble.
Kemp, who spent 10 seasons across two different stints with the Dodgers, notched starts in all three games against his former club, going 4-for-11 with two RBI. Kemp most notably came through with a go-ahead RB single in the ninth inning off Kenley Jansen on Jackie Robinson Day.
Though, a Joc Pederson walk-off home run in the bottom half of the frame still propelled Los Angeles to a thrilling 4-3 victory.
The Dodgers ultimately got the last laugh as well, completing a sweep of the Reds with a 3-2 win on Wednesday. Now with the two teams set to begin new series, Kemp reflected on the many memories he enjoyed while once again playing at Dodger Stadium, via Steve Henson of the L.A. Times:
“I was thinking about a lot of great times I had,” he said. “Unforgettable times coming up through the system and into the big leagues with my best friends. That’s rare.”
Having spent a decade with the Dodgers, Kemp established many friendships during his time in the organization, including Jansen, who called it strange facing his former teammate this week.
Kemp especially enjoyed being able to play at Dodger Stadium on Jackie Robinson Day, offering high praise to Dodgers fans in his return to the ballpark. He also had an opportunity to reunite with Andre Ethier, who attended Tuesday’s game.
