The Pittsburgh Pirates pulled a surprise, winning the bidding for power-hitting Korean shortstop Jung-Ho Kang, sources said.The winning bid was reported to be $5,002,015.The Pirates and Kang will now try to negotiate a deal. Reports have suggested he may be amenable to a three- or four-year deal for around $5 million per year. There is a 30-day window to negotiate. 
Pittsburgh wasn't seen as a likely contender for Kang since its infield looks pretty solid, especially after picking up Sean Rodriguez to back up shortstop Jordy Mercer. It also has Neil Walker for second base and Josh Harrison for third base. But Kang has big-time power, and he hit 40 home runs in 117 games for the Nexen Heroes last year, and he is seen as versatile.Kang is expected to be a productive hitter but scouts are divided whether he's ultimately a shortstop in the bigs, or perhaps a second baseman. Last year for Nexen he posted a.356/.459/.739 slash line, drawing attention.The Mets, Giants, A's, Twins and Cardinals are among teams that showed earlier interest.Hyun-Jin Ryu was the first Korean pitcher to be acquired through the posting system, and he has proved to be excellent for the Dodgers. Kang is the first position player hoping to do the same.Jon Heyman/CBS Sports
Pittsburgh wasn't seen as a likely contender for Kang since its infield looks pretty solid, especially after picking up Sean Rodriguez to back up shortstop Jordy Mercer. It also has Neil Walker for second base and Josh Harrison for third base. But Kang has big-time power, and he hit 40 home runs in 117 games for the Nexen Heroes last year, and he is seen as versatile.Kang is expected to be a productive hitter but scouts are divided whether he's ultimately a shortstop in the bigs, or perhaps a second baseman. Last year for Nexen he posted a.356/.459/.739 slash line, drawing attention.The Mets, Giants, A's, Twins and Cardinals are among teams that showed earlier interest.Hyun-Jin Ryu was the first Korean pitcher to be acquired through the posting system, and he has proved to be excellent for the Dodgers. Kang is the first position player hoping to do the same.Jon Heyman/CBS Sports
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