RADIO
After extensive discussions, the Pittsburgh Pirates have finally signed 27-year-old South Korean shortstop Jung-Ho Kang to a four-year deal worth approximately $16 million.
It had been long rumored that the Pirates would be among the more aggressive suitors for Kang’s services, and won his exclusive negotiating rights on Dec. 22, which gave the club a 30-day window to work out a deal. With the signing becoming official on Monday, the Pirates were able to pull it off with room to spare.
Kang comes to Pittsburgh having the potential to become their new everyday shortstop, after posting some impressive numbers in the Korean Baseball Organization. In 501 plate appearances, Kang hit .356 with 40 home runs and 117 RBI while playing for the Nexen Heroes.
As a result of the signing, the Heroes also collect the posting fee for his rights from Pittsburgh, which is estimated to be about $5 million.
The Pirates currently have Jordy Mercer penciled in as their shortstop on Opening Day, but Kang ultimately could supplant him, allowing Mercer to be utilized in more of a utility role.
