Heyman: Padres Do Not Have Winning Bid For Korean SS Kang

Per a tweet from CBS Sports and MLB Network Insider Jon Heyman, the San Diego Padres did not have the winning big for recently posted Korean shortstop Jung-ho Kang. The Padres are looking to upgrade the shortstop position, as right now, only Clint Barmes, Alexi Amarista, Yangervis Solarte, and possibly Cory Spangenberg are on the roster who could compete for the Opening Day nod.

The 27-year-old shortstop hit .356 with 40 home runs and 117 driven in last season in the Korean Baseball Organization for Nexxen. Don’t let the numbers fool you, the KBO is a far cry from Major League Baseball, and many scouts have openly questioned how well his bat would translate to the big league level. A team per Heyman, has placed a bid, which has been accepted. Kang projects as a middle infielder/third baseman when he arrives in America.

More from Padres News

• Jurickson Profar free agency update likely rules out Padres reunion
• Fernando Tatis Jr. may not take to outfield move after Xander Bogaerts addition
• Padres News: Fernando Tatis Jr. trade rumors, Seth Lugo chase, Manny Machado
• Padres barely missed out on high-end veteran starting pitcher
• This veteran DH target seems ideal for contending Padres roster

Now that Kang is off the board for the Padres, A.J. Preller and his front office staff will continue searching for the right fit at shortstop, preferably someone that is cheap, solid with the glove, can hit somewhat, and hits from the left side of the plate. The Padres lineup as projected now, is far too right-handed with Preller’s recent makeover. With too many outfielders, a tradeable piece in closer Joaquin Benoit, and a valuable, affordable bat in Seth Smith, expect the Friars to continue adjusting their roster throughout the winter on in to spring training.