Matt Kemp Redeux

At my first preseason game at Dodger Stadium this spring I noticed something different. First I noted the things that hadn't changed: the beauty of Chavez Ravine, the smell of garlic fries and Dodger Dogs. But then I noticed something different: a player, warming up away from fray. He was on his own and focused. He didn't join his teammates when we stood for the National Anthem. He simply removed his cap, watched the flag and then resumed his warm-ups. Huh. That's different, I thought. Hopefully Matt Kemp will be different this season.

So far, he has been. He's stealing bases, running out infield ground balls and hitting walk-off homers. Welcome back to baseball, Matt Kemp. We've missed you.