BRADENTON, Fla. -- Jung Ho Kang's request for a work visa has reportedly been denied, leaving him in South Korea awaiting entrance to the United States and casting further doubt on his availability for the Pirates this year.
On Thursday, general manager Neal Huntington said the application for Kang's visa was "ongoing" but confirmed he would not be ready by Opening Day. On Friday, several Korean reports indicated Kang's request was not granted. According to a Korean Broadcasting System report, it is uncertain when -- or even if -- Kang will be able to join the Pirates this season.