Going into the international market is not new for the Pittsburgh Pirates, but they managed a surprising win in the bidding war to sign Korean shortstop Jung-Ho Kang. The Pirates generally scout amateur players in the international leagues, but rarely focus on those that have turned pro. Jon Heyman reports that the Pirates have submitted a bid just over $5 million that gives them a 30-day window to negotiate with the power-hitting middle infielder.
The Pirates had seemingly secured their infield by adding depth with Justin Sellers and Sean Rodriguez. There are still some uncertainties with Pedro Alvarez expected to start at first base, but Jordy Mercer was expected to be unchallenged as the starting shortstop. Of course there is a question of whether Kang translates to shortstop in MLB. Baseball America's Ben Badler says that scouts expect him to be a nice bench option and utility man.
Kang slashed .356/.459/.739 with 40 home runs for Nexen in Seoul last season. The league is hitter friendly, but the power numbers are intriguing enough for the Pirates. If he can show that power with Pittsburgh, then he will be fit into the infield. Regardless this move suggests there are question marks about the infield. Kang will add flexibility.
The addition of Kang means that Neil Walker and Mercer could be moved to a different position. It also means that Kang may be the first option if Josh Harrison fails to replicate his 2014 season. Kang reportedly wants $5-6 million per year, so the money suggests he will get plenty of playing time.
The Pirates payroll is approaching $100 million for 2015. It is a mark that many fans could not fathom, but making a bold move to negotiate with a power-hitting shortstop from Korea was not on the radar either. Kang has a U.S.-based agent and the 30 days starts now.