It appears Matt Kemp is serious about his side winning the Home Run Derby.
The Los Angeles Dodgers star, who was named as the National League captain in early June, has put together a monstrous team (via Los Angeles Dodgers' Twitter account):
'@TheRealMattKemp announces his National League Home Run Derby selections: Stanton, CarGo and Beltran. twitter.com/Dodgers/status…
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) July 1, 2012
Now that's some impressive power.
Matt Kemp, Los Angeles Dodgers
Kemp currently resides on the disabled list, but it appears he will be able to compete in his second-straight Home Run Derby.
The All-Star outfielder put up a stinker in the Derby last year, knocking just two out of the park and finishing last behind Rickie Weeks.
Of course, players who return after a bad performance generally do much better. Adrian Gonzalez only hit two long balls in 2009, but returned last season to hit 31 total dingers, finishing second to Robinson Cano.
Before injuring himself, Kemp was establishing himself as the best power bat in the league this season. His HR/FB percentage of 40 percent is not only ridiculous, it's easily best in the majors.
If he can regain his rhythm, Kemp will be dangerous.
Giancarlo Stanton, Miami Marlins
Easily the best pure power hitter in the majors. When Stanton is at the plate, you better be watching, because he has the ability to hit it 500 feet every time.
Stanton is third in the NL with 18 homers, but if there's one guy who can put on a show at a Home Run Derby, it's Miami's power-slugging outfielder.
Carlos Beltran, St. Louis Cardinals
Beltran has over 300 home runs in his career, but much like the youngster Stanton, this will be his first Home Run Derby.
That being said, he might deserve it more this year than any other in his career, as Beltran already has 20 home runs and is well on his way to a monster season.
The veteran has a smooth stroke and will likely have the least amount of nerves of anyone on the NL team. He's a sleeper.
Carlos Gonzalez, Colorado Rockies
The NL may have impressive power, but it doesn't have a ton of experience in the Derby, as this is also Gonzalez' first appearance.
Nonetheless, this guy has 17 homers and is slugging a ridiculous .604, which is better than anyone else on the team. He also has a HR/FB percentage of 24.6, which is second best in the NL among qualified hitters, trailing only Bryan LaHair.
Kemp has put together an impressive young squad. They are either going to dominate the competition or be completely terrible, much like last year when they hit just 19 homers compared to the AL's 76. There will be no in between for these newbies.
Tampa Bay Lightning Washington Capitals Arizona Diamondbacks Atlanta Braves Chicago Cubs Cincinnati Reds
No comments:
Post a Comment