Rihanna is coming off a tough breakup with fellow R&B performer Chris Brown, who was charged with assaulting her during an incident after a pre-Grammy Awards party last year. Kemp certainly did his part to court Rihanna, throwing her a blockbuster party for her 22nd birthday and taking her on a vacation to Mexico.
However, as with any relationship between a ballplayer and a celebrity, there are concerns that Rihanna will become a distraction to Kemp, particularly if she’s often seen at the ballpark in Chavez Ravine. The 25-year-old Kemp himself said that he couldn’t split his focus between romance and baseball while denying that the two were an item in recent weeks.
"I can't get distracted by that,” Kemp told reporters. “When it's time to play baseball, that's my job. No distractions.”
Kemp enjoyed a breakout season in 2009, showcasing his five-tool ability by batting .297 with 26 home runs, 101 RBIs and 34 stolen bases. He is the most dynamic threat in the Dodgers’ lineup, and among the most exciting young players to watch in all of baseball.
Alex Rodriguez's relationship with Kate Hudson lasted merely a few months, but it was long enough for the Yankees to win the World Series. Dodger fans are hoping Kemp’s romance with Rihanna produces a similar result.
