Pirates infielder Jung Ho Kang will miss the rest of the 2015 season with multiple injuries to his left knee and leg, according to a report by Josh Yohe of DKPittsburghSports.com
Kang’s agent, Alan Nero, also released a statement through the team on his client’s behalf this evening:
“It is unfortunate that what would be considered heads up baseball would cause such a serious injury. That said, Coghlan was playing the game the way it should be played. I’m confident he meant no harm. I appreciate everyone’s support.”
Pirates centerfielder Andrew McCutchen took to Twitter to show his support for his rookie teammate.
Send our teammate Jung Ho Kang prayers. Heal up Chingu(friend). We got u. Best believe that
— andrew mccutchen (@TheCUTCH22) September 17, 2015
Kang was removed in the top of the first inning for the Pittsburgh Pirates in Thursday afternoon’s game against the Chicago Cubs with an injury to his left knee.
The injury occurred when Chris Coghlan slid into second base attempting to break up a double play. The play is commonly known as a take out slide as Coghlan was attempting to break up a potential double play.
This is the second time the Pirates have had an injury when breaking up a double play as Jordy Mercer did the same and had to be helped off by a cart in Milwaukee.
Kang was examined by trainer Ben Potenziano and he and interpreter H.K. Kim helped Kang off the field.
This was Kang’s 126th game of the season and he was batting .287 with 15 home runs and 58 RBI. Kang led all rookies with 24 extra-base hits among rookies since the All-Star Break.
Kang was a key cog to the Pirates offense and each time he produced at least one RBI, the team had a 32-9 record. He also has 26 multi-hit games on the season.
Hurdle has praised Kang throughout the season but his ability to have a short memory and for his quick thinking while running the bases. He started the season as a shortstop and in a reserve role, however he began to develop at third base. This in combination with his bat made it a hard decision not to start him.
On the play, despite Coghlan’s slide, Kang was able to finish the double play, making the throw over to first base to get Anthony Rizzo out.
Mercer replaced Kang in the game.
Photo credit: Justin K. Aller/Getty Images
