Tuesday, February 21, 2012

Kemp Doesn't Want 2011 MVP Award, Even If Evasive Drug-Test-Failing Guy Ahead Of Him Is Actually Punished

Way to keep looking forward, Matty, and not dwell in the past:

GLENDALE, Ariz. -- Los Angeles Dodgers center fielder Matt Kemp said Tuesday that he doesn't believe he should be given the National League Most Valuable Player Award if the actual winner of the award, Milwaukee Brewers left fielder Ryan Braun, loses his appeal of a 50-game suspension for a positive performance-enhancing drug test.

Kemp finished second to Braun in balloting for the award by the Baseball Writers Association of America, which already has said the award will stay with Braun no matter how his appeal is resolved.

"I feel like that would be by default," said Kemp, who already is in spring training several days before the Dodgers position players are required to report. "I wish I would've won it just by them voting me and me being the MVP. That would be special. But hopefully, I will have the same type of year or even better and win it straight up this year, with us making the playoffs."

Kemp expressed concern for what Braun is going through.

"It's an unfortunate situation," he said. "I still don't know what is going to happen. I know Braun. We have always been cool, and we have been friends. He is one of my favorite players in the big leagues. I hope it's not true, but I don't think it's for me or any of (the media) to decide. Only he knows for sure, and I don't know what the outcome is going to be."

Just go out and focus on having another monster year in 2012, Kemp. We'll be right behind you, cheering you on with choruses of "MVP!".

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