Kemp’s power ‘show’ in the Bronx

NEW YORK — Pitcher James Kaprielian said of an A’s teammate after Friday’s series opener at Yankee Stadium: “I think if he was playing here yearround, he’d probably (hit) 50 home runs.”

Kaprielian was talking about Matt Olson, who ranks third in the AL in home runs and hit one into the second deck Friday.

At this rate, maybe it also applied to Tony Kemp?

Kemp, not usually counted among the power threats in the A’s lineup, has seized upon the short rightfield porch at Yankee Stadium this series. Kemp hit a threerun homer in the sixth inning of Oakland’s win Friday. On Saturday, he hit a solo shot against Yankees starter Domingo Germán in the first inning of a 75 loss.

It was the first time Kemp has homered in backtoback games in the majors. He hit two home runs total in the first 50 games of this season. Each of the past two were estimated at the same distance, a modest 353 feet. Power is a bonus from Kemp, who has been one of the A’s hottest hitters for a stretch.

Kemp is batting .318 in his last 31 games since May 8. He has 12 extrabase hits and 16 RBIs in that span. The output has resulted in more playing time and some starts against lefthanders.

“It’s Tony’s show right now,” shortstop Elvis Andrus said. “That kid puts in so much work, such a nice guy and when you see good people doing good it’s always great to see that. … He’s been clutch, he’s been doing the job, he’s been getting on base, playing great defense. So we have really great depth on this team and I think that’s the reason we’re where we’re at.”

Kemp has made his most starts in the ninth lineup spot, where his onbase percentage is .429. His and Andrus’ increased offense lately is reflected in leadoff hitter Mark Canha racking up 16 of his 31 RBIs this season in June. Kemp moved up to the second spot Saturday and reached base twice in four trips to the plate. He has as many walks (25) as strikeouts this season and his .391 OBP is fifthhighest among AL hitters with at least 100 plate appearances.

“He’s a tough out, he just grinds atbats,” A’s pitcher

Chris Bassitt said. “And I think the league is kind of losing that and it’s all about homers and all about doubles and stuff like that, but that kind of gnat so to speak in your lineup is definitely a headache from a starting standpoint.

“So I think his role on the team is obviously bring the energy and just be that guy. Obviously he’s hit a couple home runs, which is awesome. But he’s just a tough out and he’ll take the walk when you give it to him. Like I said, from a starting standpoint it’s not fun facing those guys.”