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Kang expected to miss start of spring training to attend DUI trial

Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports

Pittsburgh Pirates third baseman Jung Ho Kang is expected to miss the start of spring training and will attend his scheduled court date on Feb. 22, general manager Neil Huntington confirmed Friday.

The infielder was arrested for driving under the influence and fleeing the scene of an accident on Dec. 2 in Seoul, South Korea. Police confirmed it was Kang's third DUI arrest.

Kang had the choice to either attend his trial or submit a legal document asking for the date to be pushed back so he could attend spring training with his teammates. Huntington said he supports Kang's decision and will continue to assist him during this time.

"We expect he will remain in South Korea," Huntington said on Friday, according to Rob Biertempfel of Trib Live. "We will support him as he goes through that process."

With Kang's future with the team still up in the air, the Pirates acquired some much-needed infield depth, trading for second baseman Phil Gosselin. The 28-year-old has experience playing third base as well, which should bode well for the Pirates as Kang sorts out his off-field issues.

"It absolutely does serve as insurance (for Kang's absence) if needed," Huntington said. "But we also have been looking for an extra right-handed hitter, and Gosselin is a guy who can play multiple positions."

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