Otto Kemp Embraces Utility Role as Opportunity Arises

Otto Kemp strides into the Phillies' clubhouse, embodying the determination that propelled him from an undrafted player at Division II Point Loma Nazarene University to a major league athlete. His journey has been marked by resilience and adaptability.

Having spent over a month with the Phillies, Kemp has established himself as a valuable asset. "We're getting there, [but] I feel like it's gone well," he remarked, reflecting on his progress. "I feel like we've been taking some pretty good strides."

In his first 28 major league games, Kemp showcased his versatility, playing 15 games at first base, nine in left field, and four at third base. The Phillies appreciate his ability to adjust across the diamond, which has led to a shift in his role as a utility player, especially with Bryce Harper's return to the lineup.

With Harper at first base, Alec Bohm at third, and Max Kepler taking left field against right-handed pitchers, Kemp's opportunities have dwindled. "It's a little different," he acknowledged. "Naturally, there's a rhythm you get into when you're playing every day, but I think you can hold onto that as long as you don't hold off the gas. Staying ready is crucial."

As Kemp navigated this transition, an injury to Bohm opened the door for him at third base. This opportunity allows Kemp to demonstrate his capability to be a regular contributor in a veteran-heavy lineup.

"I've liked his at-bats the whole time," said Phillies manager Rob Thomson. "He works the at-bat, stays within the zone for the most part, and uses the entire field. That's my definition of a pretty good hitter."

Kemp's contributions have been significant; the Phillies hold a 15-11 record in games he started. With a .250 batting average and a .671 OPS, he is still adjusting to major league pitching, having hit just one home run compared to 14 in Triple-A Lehigh Valley.

"It's just kind of finding my rhythm again," Kemp explained. "We're focusing more on quality at-bats, and I feel like that's a good thing to focus on — and I've been accomplishing that. I think we're getting there."

Despite knowing his role would change with Harper's return, Kemp's daily approach remains consistent. "I think it's mostly just staying ready," he stated. "It's about working on things you're not comfortable with or honing what you do feel comfortable with and taking that into the game."

His performance at Citizens Bank Park has been impressive, hitting .333 with a .780 OPS at home compared to .159 on the road. Notably, his average has risen from .246 in June to .261 in July, despite fewer at-bats.

The most significant adjustment for Kemp in his time in the majors? The increased fastball velocity. "There are guys here that have really good heaters," he noted. "That's what good hitting heaps off of. If you can hit that, you can hit all the other stuff. That's been the biggest adjustment."

As the Phillies look to Kemp to fill in at third base or left field against left-handed pitchers in the coming weeks, he is prepared for the challenge. Until the trade deadline clarifies his position, Kemp remains ready to contribute wherever needed.

"I feel like all these coaches have been really helpful with everything I need from position to position," he said. "We've been staying on top of everything. Even though I was in left, I was still staying sharp at third and the infield and vice versa."

"Just kinda staying ready at all those positions and waiting for whatever they need me," Kemp concluded.