Tribute to 1990 Topps - Matt Kemp

Matt Kemp is a promising young star for the Dodgers.

At age 23, he is already a productive Major League player. He hits for average, power, draws walks, steals bases at a good success rate and plays some defense. Here are his statistics from 2008:

.290 AVG
.340 OBP
.459 SLG
35 SB at a 76% success rate

But 2009 could really be his breakout year. Look at the progress below:

First half of 2008: 3.25 AB per strikeout, 10.24 AB per XBH
Second half of 2009: 5.47 AB per strikeout, 9.57 AB per XBH

He's cutting down on his strikeouts without a loss in power. And he's doing it quickly. That's a very good sign, Dodger fans!

He is featured here in the style of 1990 Topps, a favorite of Charlie's over at Fantasy Baseball 365.