When the Pirates emerged as the winner of the Jung-ho Kang sweepstakes, one name instantly popped in the mind of Pirates’ fans around the world: Jordy Mercer.
It’s fair, after all. Kang played shortstop, and the Pirates didn’t bid $5 million for the rights to negotiate with him just to have him as depth, did they? Well, on the surface, it seemed that way. MLB network did, in case you missed it, name Mercer as the sixth best shortstop in baseball. Not that I agree with that, but it’s not like Kang is going to walk into Pittsburgh and suddenly supplant Mercer as the starting shortstop.
So what does this move really mean for the Pirates?
To be honest, Kang is going to be a backup this year, barring injury or a trade. Don’t think so? Take a look at the infield positions.
Third base — Josh Harrison
Shortstop — Mercer
Second base — Neil Walker
First base — Pedro Alvarez
At first, we know that Corey Hart is going to be the platoon mate with Alvarez, and Sean Rodriguez play multiple positions in relief, too.
So, a four-year deal, with a fifth-year option worth $16 million for a backup shortstop who clubbed 40 home runs while having a slash line of .356/.459/.739. Seems crazy, right?
The thing is, the signing doesn’t actually impact the team this year. Yes, the contract starts this year. Yes, he’ll be primarily a backup unless Mercer or Harrison completely tank.
But the key to the Kang signing is actually Walker, and what it means for him in the future. In December, the Pirates announced that they were looking to sign Walker to a long-term deal, which was a bit surprising. Right now, Walker is signed through 2016, when he’ll become a free agent at the age of 31. If the Pirates do indeed sign Walker, it’s not going to be an earth-shattering contract, but he’ll get fair market value or slightly less.
But, if and when the Pirates decide to extend Walker, it won’t be as a second baseman. Walker already has suffered from back injuries, and his range will only continue to be limited with the older he gets.
The extension will force Walker to a corner spot, more than likely first base which will be open once the team parts ways with Alvarez. If Harrison can’t handle the position long term, Walker could also shift to third base. Walker is not your ideal power first baseman, but if he clubs another 23 home runs like he did last year, which were a career high, you’ll take that production.
“But Walker has never played the position before.”
You’re right, he hasn’t. He also never played second base before taking over the position from Aki Iwamura, and he’s done just fine there. There’s no reason to think he couldn’t easily make the transition over to first.
Kang’s bat could be freed up earlier than that though, especially if the Pirates are able to move Alvarez. But as long as the 35-home run potential is there, Pedro will stay on the field.
But, as soon as Alvarez is gone, look for the Pirates to fill the void internally, and showcase a middle infield of Mercer and Kang, in some way or fashion, before the arrival of prospect Alen Hanson.
