We love the city of Busan, the Giants fans, and the Lotte organization. Since we arrived in Busan everyone has made us feel like family and Korea has been our home away from home. Over last month we have prayed, talked, and sought the advice of some of our closest friends. As a family, we have decided to stay in America for this season. Our plan was to come back to Lotte for a third season, but an opportunity came up that will allow our
family to stay together. Right now, we know this is what is most important for our family as we prepare for Monroe's next surgery. We appreciate your support over the last two seasons. I know I have said this a lot over the last two years, but Lotte truly has the most passionate, caring, and loving fans in the KBO. Our hope is that all of us can return to Busan and I can play for Lotte again in seasons to come. Thank you for your support over the last two years. Lotte Fighting.
Korean MLB Player Jungho- Kang removed from 2017 WBC Roaster.
Justin K. Aller / Getty Images Sport / Getty
Pittsburgh Pirates third baseman Jung Ho Kang has been officially removed from team Korea's 28-man roster for the upcoming World Baseball Classic, according to Yoo Jee-ho of Yonhap News Agency.
Korea's manager, Kim In-sik, made the decision in a meeting with team officials Wednesday, a day after admitting he was leaning towards removing Kang due to the 29-year-old's troubling history with driving under the influence of alcohol.
The third baseman was charged with his third DUI since 2009 - as well as fleeing the scene of an accident on Dec. 2 in Seoul. He was also under an investigation for an alleged sexual assault incident in July in a Chicago Hotel room, though no charges have been laid.
There was speculation that St. Louis Cardinals reliever Seung-hwan Oh would be considered as Kang's replacement. Instead, the roster spot will be filled by Kim Ha-seong - a 21-year-old All-Star shortstop playing for the Korean Baseball Organization's Nexen Heroes.
Team Korea will open the tournament against the Netherlands on March 7 in Seoul.