'Grateful' for 2nd chance, Kang apologizes as he prepares to rejoin Pirates
Jung Ho Kang, the Pittsburgh Pirates infielder who has been on Major League Baseball's restricted list since 2017 following a DUI conviction in his native South Korea, issued a formal apology Friday and said he is "very grateful" to have received a second chance to play in the big leagues.
Kang, who signed a four-year, $11-million deal ahead of the 2015 campaign, was granted a U.S. work visa on Thursday, and is expected to rejoin the Pirates shortly.
"Most importantly, I want to apologize to my family, friends, teammates, the Pirates organization, Pirates fans, and anyone else who has been negatively affected by my regretful actions," Kang said in a statement. "I am deeply sorry.
"I am very grateful to the U.S. government for giving me a second chance to demonstrate my pride in and appreciation for being allowed to continue my dream of playing Major League Baseball in the United States. I am also thankful for the support of Major League Baseball, the Pirates, my teammates, and our fans. Their strong support has been a driving force and motivation for me during the past year."
On Thursday, Pirates president Frank Coonelly said he is encouraged by the steps taken by Kang, who agreed to enter a treatment program last February following his third arrest for driving under the influence.
Pirates general manager Neal Huntington said that no further discipline from Major League Baseball is expected for Kang, according to Adam Berry of MLB.com.
Kang, who turned 31 earlier this month, hasn't played a big-league game since Oct. 2, 2016. Over parts of two seasons with the Pirates, Kang has managed an .838 OPS with 36 home runs and 43 doubles in 229 games.
"After a long, painful process, I am excited to have a chance to return to the game that I have missed so much," Kang said. "My focus is first on becoming the best person that I can be. Second, I look forward to getting to Pirates City and demonstrating that I am committed to doing whatever I can to get back to Pittsburgh and help the Pirates win. I will not disappoint anyone anymore."