SURPRISE, Arizona (Yonhap) ― Ryu Hyun-jin, the South Korean pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers, on Saturday predicted a successful major league career for his compatriot and friend Kang Jung-ho, a shortstop who recently signed with the Pittsburgh Pirates.

The two 27-year-olds have been close friends throughout their pro careers. As Kang joined his former KBO team, the Nexen Heroes, for their spring training here Saturday, Ryu watched his buddy from the sidelines. Ryu had earlier arrived in Glendale, also in Arizona, to begin his offseason training.

“I think his bat will be more than good enough in the majors,” Ryu said.

“I think he will be able to hit (big league) fastballs, and if he can be a full-time player, he can easily launch over 20 home runs.”