Breaking down Matt Kemp's salary status

Matt Kemp is currently in the final year of the two-year contract he signed in January 2010 that covered his first two arbitration seasons. He is eligible for arbitration this winter and could ask for $15 million for next season, according to some reports.

And with the numbers Kemp posted this season, it's likely he would be awarded that total if he were to go to arbitration instead of reaching an extension.

Both Kemp and his agent Dave Stewart, a former Dodger, recently said they have yet to discuss an extension with Los Angeles. Kemp, however, told ESPN Radio “I plan on being with the Dodgers the rest of my career.”

Despite owner Frank McCourt filing for bankruptcy, MLB told the Los Angeles Times the Dodgers will still be able to offer big contracts this offseason.

That could bode well for Kemp, as he nears free agency for the first time in his career.

If he does reach free agency after next season, he would be one of the top players on the free agent market.

Matt Kemp's salary breakdown

Year; Age; Salary

2007; 22; $383,000

2008; 23; $406,000

2009; 24; $467,000

2010; 25; $4,000,000

2011; 26; $6,950,000*

Total: $12,206,000**

* Base salary increases up to $150,000 based on plate appearances

** Including what he will make in 2011

Source: Baseball-reference.com