Dodgers' Matt Kemp Stoked for Machado, We're Legit World Series Contenders

Dodgers' superstar Matt Kemp says he's "really excited" for his good friend, Manny Machado, to join the Blue Crew -- telling TMZ Sports the squad has a real shot to win the World Series.

"Great baseball player, friend of mine," Kemp told us at the airport in D.C. ... "I think the city of Los Angeles is really excited at the moment."

Kemp also admits he knew about the Machado trade during the All-Star game on Tuesday -- when he took a selfie with Manny on the field.

We also asked Kemp if he had any advice for LeBron James on how to succeed in L.A. -- and Dodgers fans are REALLY gonna like his answer.