Jung Ho Kang (SS, PIT) - Waiver Wire Pickups

BALLER MOVE: Add in Deeper Leagues and Stash in NL-only leagues

OWNED IN: 21% of Fleaflicker leagues

ANALYSIS: It may be difficult to follow both Major League Baseball and the Korean Baseball Organization at the same time, but if someone found the time to follow the KBO, Jung Ho Kang is already on their radar. In 2014 for the Nexen Heroes, Kang hit .356 with a .739 slugging percentage, 36 doubles, 40 HR, an XBH% of 15.6%, and a 1.198 OPS. The level of competition may be a little different, but the KBO has produced pitchers like Chan Ho Park and Hyun-jin Ryu, so the league isn't lacking in high level talent.

Jung Ho Kang currently sits behind Jordy Mercer as the Pirates shortstop. To start this season, Mercer has yet to hit an XBH, and is packing a .493 OPS, and only three RBI, all in 41 AB. Kang already has two 2B and six RBI in just 29 AB. Kang has a decent K% of 20.7% and a less than ideal 11% LD rate with a 3:1 ground out to fly out ratio.

Jordy Mercer has yet to even attempt a SB this season while in 2012 Jung Ho Kang had 21 SB on 26 attempts and in 2013 Kang had 15 SB out of 23 attempts. Kang stole his first Major League base Wednesday night as part of a nice 3 for 5 night in the Pirates 8-1 drubbing of the Cubs

As an added bonus, Kang won four Gold Gloves while playing in Korea, meaning once he gets into the lineup more regularly, his glove should help keep him there. It is only a matter of time until the Pirates end up starting him somewhere in the infield. When they finally do, be the shrewd manager Manager that takes notice and take advantage of Kang's SS power hitting potential.