Pittsburgh Pirates: Jung Ho Kang attempting to return once again
Pittsburgh Pirates infielder Jung Ho Kang is not giving up on returning to the team, as he is set to apply for a work visa once again.
Despite all the trades and cost cutting by the Pittsburgh Pirates, there may be one recognizable face on the team in 2018. That is, if he is allowed to return to the franchise. Once again, Pirates infielder Jung Ho Kang is attempting to return to reclaim his spot in the lineup, as he is looking to apply for a work visa for the 2018 season.
Unlike his attempt this year, Kang will be trying to enter through a different country. This time, he has entered the Dominican Republic, as he plans on applying for a visa at the embassy in that country. Maybe a different country will make a difference – it couldn’t hurt…
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If Kang can return to the majors, and return to form, he could be a boost to the lineup. In his two seasons with the Pirates, he has produced a .273/.354/.483 batting line, hitting 36 homers and 43 doubles. He has also produced relatively solid defense at short and third, with slightly above average range at both positions.
The problem is, there are questions as to whether or not Kang would be able to return to form. His last trip to the Dominican Republic was disastrous, as he posted a .143/.219/.202 batting line with 31 strikeouts in 84 at bats during the Winter League. He would have a lot of work to do to knock off that rust.
Of course, this all depends on whether or not Kang can even return to the Pirates. His attempt to apply for a visa was denied last season due to his third DUI conviction. Perhaps being able to avoid trouble for a year will allow him to return to Pittsburgh, but they are not counting on having Kang back.
Next: Pirates fans try to force Nutting out
Jung Ho Kang is not giving up on returning to the Pittsburgh Pirates. Maybe this time will be different.