pure science with a splash of black cat

"When Kemp flew to New York in November to accept his second Gold Glove Award, he received a call from his agent, Dave Stewart. Stewart told him he had reached an agreement with the Dodgers on an eight-year, $160 million extension — then the biggest contract in National League history. Kemp broke down and cried at baggage claim. ‘You think about the 2010 season, all the struggles before that, your whole life,” Kemp says, shaking his head. ‘And then I was like, “Wow, now I can take care of my mama.”’"

Center fielder Matt Kemp is taking control of the Los Angeles Dodgers | Molly Knight, ESPN the Magazine (June 25)

(via dodgers)

"Kemp leans in over a marble table at Bistro 24, elbows on his knees, fingers interlaced in front of him as they would be in prayer, and breaks it down. “I’m young,” he says. “I make mistakes. I know that. I try to learn from them and not repeat them. I have a lot to learn, and I’m going to get things wrong. I’m going to let my emotions get the best of me sometimes. I’m going to try to do more than I should. But I’m a good dude. I know when to say, ‘My bad, I’m sorry.’ I’ve got work to do, but I’m a good dude. And I love this game. I love playing this game.” That’s the essence of Matt Kemp. And it’s a shame if you’re missing it."

Eric Neel, “Lights. Camera. Kemp.” ESPN Magazine, October 2009. (via oliviaaarrgh)