Pirates infielder Jung Ho Kang reportedly out for season

Pirates shortstop Jung Ho Kang left Thursday’s game against the Chicago Cubs in the first inning with a significant left knee injury. Various reports said Kang had suffered a torn knee ligament and was out for the season.

The 28-year-old rookie, the first position player to directly make the jump from the Korean Baseball Organization to the majors, was hurt when Chris Coghlan slid into him while unsuccessfully trying to break up a double play.

Following the Pirates’ 9-6 loss, Kang said in a statement that he did not consider it a dirty play by Coghlan.

“It is unfortunate that what would be considered heads-up baseball would cause such a serious injury,” Kang said. “That said, Coghlan was playing the game the way it should be played. I’m confident he meant me no harm. I appreciate everyone’s support.”

Kang is hitting .287 with 15 home runs in 126 games.

Etc.

Josh Hamilton is hoping to be able to pinch-hit for the AL West-leading Texas Rangers by the end of the weekend. Hamilton said Thursday that all has gone well since arthroscopic surgery Sept. 11 to clean up the meniscus in his left knee. ... The Cleveland Indians, a latecomer to the AL wild-card chase, have sent struggling right-hander Trevor Bauer to the bullpen, and the Kansas City Royals have done the same with Danny Duffy. ... Miami Marlins slugger Giancarlo Stanton hopes to play before the end of the season, but tests this week showed his injured left hand still hasn’t recovered.