Fansided

MLB trade rumors: Each team’s best trade chip

By Joshua Sadlock

Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports /
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May 31, 2017; Anaheim, CA, USA; Atlanta Braves left fielder Matt Kemp (27) celebrates with third baseman Rio Ruiz (14) after hitting a solo home run against the Los Angeles Angels during the second inning at Angel Stadium of Anaheim. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports
May 31, 2017; Anaheim, CA, USA; Atlanta Braves left fielder Matt Kemp (27) celebrates with third baseman Rio Ruiz (14) after hitting a solo home run against the Los Angeles Angels during the second inning at Angel Stadium of Anaheim. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports /

Atlanta Braves: Matt Kemp

The Braves acquired Matt Kemp last summer in an attempt to rid themselves of troubled Cuban player Hector Olivera. Atlanta is on the hook for nearly $16 million for Kemp for the 2017 season and two more beyond. Kemp is swinging the bat as well as he did during his prime with Los Angeles.

In his time with the Braves, Kemp is hitting .309/.355/.558 with 22 home runs and 69 RBI in his first 97 games. This season, he is hitting a torrid .345/.381/.608 with 10 home runs and 30 RBI in his first 41 games. Kemp looked disinterested playing with the San Diego Padres, but has revitalized his career with the Braves. At 32, he has the potential to finish out his eight-year, $160-million contract with a bang.

Kemp’s defense has declined so much that he should be a DH in the American League. Since 2014, he has been worth -8.7 defensive WAR. Last season, he was worth -18 defensive runs saved in the outfield. Kemp would be very attractive to a contender seeking an influx of power. The Texas Rangers traded for Carlos Beltran at the deadline last season, and could have interest in adding Kemp to help stabilize their all-or-nothing attack.

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