Matt Kemp said Saturday that he intends to return to the Dodgers lineup July 13 against the San Diego Padres at Dodger Stadium, the first game after the All-Star break.
"I'll be ready," Kemp said.
Kemp has played in only two of the Dodgers' last 45 games because of a strained left hamstring. He is planning to go on a minor league rehabilitation assignment in the coming week.
The assignment could start as early as Tuesday with Class-A Rancho Cucamonga. He is expecting to miss the All-Star gamebut will take part in the Home Run Derby on July 9.
"I'm doing it," Kemp said of the derby.
Bullpen catcher Rob Flippo will pitch to Kemp in the home run-hitting exhibition, in which Kemp will captain the National League team. Kemp is expected to take part in a team workout at Dodger Stadium on July 12, the final day of the All-Star break.
Watching the Dodgers' recent tailspin from the bench has been difficult. But Kemp is trying to view his injury in a positive light.
"I wish I could be out there helping out, but it is what it is," Kemp said. "It could be worse than what it is right now."
Kemp has been running bases at full speed in recent workouts, but said, "The real test is playing in games."
