TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The rousing cheer song "Brave Taiwan" (台灣尚勇) echoed through the Presidential Office on Tuesday (Nov. 26), setting the stage for President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) to honor Taiwan's national baseball team following their historic triumph in the 2024 WBSC Premier12 tournament. This vibrant celebration, filled with music and national pride, marked a unifying moment for the country.
Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim (蕭美琴) and Chinese Professional Baseball League (CPBL, 中職) Commissioner Tsai Chi-chang (蔡其昌) joined the festive occasion. Team captain Chen Chieh-hsien (陳傑憲) and head coach Tseng Hao-ju (曾豪駒) led the team in the performance, energizing the crowd and highlighting the spirit of victory.
President Lai, donning a Taiwan hoodie, praised the players, stating, "You are the glory of Taiwan. Thank you for everything you did for the country." His remarks underscored the monumental impact of the team's achievement on Taiwan's sporting history.
During the event, President Lai shared a personal anecdote about his enduring friendship with pitcher Lin Yu-min (林昱珉), recalling the encouragement he offered during a U12 tournament as Tainan's mayor. His comparison to baseball legend Wang Chien-ming's (王建民) injury, however, sparked some debate, with fans acknowledging the uncontrollable nature of sports injuries.
Wang, celebrated for his success with the New York Yankees, experienced a career setback in 2008 due to an ankle injury from uneven base running. He now serves as the team's pitching coach, imparting his knowledge to the next generation of players.
