Pirates Could Pursue Korean Slugger Si-Hwan Roh
On November 3, Pittsburgh’s need at third base has made Korean slugger Si-Hwan Roh a potential target for 2027, but the Pirates must reach a deal during his 30-day posting window.
Pittsburgh has a hole at third base after trading Ke’Bryan Hayes to Cincinnati in 2025. One possible solution is Si-Hwan Roh, an eight-year veteran of South Korea’s KBO League who is seeking an opportunity in Major League Baseball for 2027 and beyond.
Roh has hit .267 with a .353 on-base percentage and .457 slugging percentage across 957 games for the Hanwha Eagles. He has hit at least 18 home runs in each of the past seven seasons, including 29 last season, when he drove in 96 runs and posted an .865 OPS. In 2023, he recorded career highs with a .298 average, 31 home runs and 101 RBIs.
The Pirates’ third basemen combined for 15 home runs in 2026, among the lowest totals in the majors, and a .677 OPS. Nick Gonzales hit .303 but struggled defensively, while Jared Triolo offered strong defense but had a .600 OPS and three home runs. Roh has played 791 career games at third base, though his defense is not considered a strength. He could eventually shift to first base or designated hitter, including if prospect Murf Gray develops into a major-league option.
Hanwha posted Roh on November 1, giving him 30 days to sign with an MLB club. If he does not, he will return to the Eagles and begin an 11-year contract extension in 2027. A signing would also bring a posting fee for Hanwha, calculated at 20% of the first $25 million of his contract, 17.5% of the next $25 million and 15% of any amount above $50 million. The Pirates would need to complete a deal before the posting period ends on December 1.