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The Pittsburgh Pirates resigned themselves to not having Jung Ho Kang for 2017 long ago.
Having said that, the recent report from Bill Brink in the Post-Gazette — that the Pirates were working to get Kang into winter ball — makes complete sense.
For one, Pittsburgh Pirates brass need to get eyes on Kang to see where his bat is. Though the club has been in regular contact with Kang’s camp in regards to his continued work to stay sharp, Neal Huntington cannot possibly make any kind of firm decision on Kang’s future with the club without laying eyes on him first.
This season showed us that the Pittsburgh Pirates are not a very dangerous club while missing Kang’s power presence in the lineup. To be sure, Josh Bell‘s power development as well as Andrew McCutchen‘s usual 25+ home run has softened the blow. However, the Pirates are quickly finding themselves way behind in the most-prevalent trend among MLB hitters today.
And it just makes good business sense, of course. Kang would still be a bargain in 2018 and 2019 at his current contract, and perhaps enough time will pass to soften the visa process.
The waiver trade deadline is almost here
The August 31st waiver trade deadline is fast approaching, and the Pittsburgh Pirates may find themselves selling off some parts.
As a reminder, it is not always possible to know exactly what players any team has put on waivers. Many waivers are procedural only (ex. Bryce Harper), and the information is not made public. Unless a specific name has been reported, it is all very hush-hush.
If we look at the current Pittsburgh Pirates that might attract interest and make sense for a late-season trade, we find ourselves with one realistic name: Juan Nicasio. A free agent at the end of the year, Nicasio would be a solid addition to any contender’s bullpen.
Beyond Nicasio, the waters are murky. John Jaso and Chris Stewart are possibilities, but unlikely to draw a strong interest.
The August trade deadline may end up being even quieter than the non-waiver deadline.
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