TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan to open the 31st Asian Baseball Championship against Palestine Monday (Sept. 22) in Pingtan (平潭), China, with 19-year-old Lin Sheng-en (林盛恩) starting on the mound. Lin, Taiwan's sole U.S.-based player in the tournament, currently plays in the Cincinnati Reds' minor league system. The team seeks a strong start in Group B competition featuring South Korea, Hong Kong, and Palestine.
Lin has shown promise in the minor leagues this season, appearing in 15 games with a 0-2 record and 3.06 ERA as a starting pitcher. Taiwan aims to dominate Group B competition against South Korea, Hong Kong, and Palestine in the continental tournament. The dual-threat player represents Taiwan's connection to Major League Baseball's developmental system through the Cincinnati Reds organization.
Taiwan strategically arranged its lineup to maximize offensive potential against Palestine in the tournament opener. The batting order features Chen Hsiao-yun (陳孝允) in center field, Pan Chun-yu (潘俊宇) as designated hitter, and Chen Min-ssu (陳敏賜) at first base. Taiwan hopes this configuration will deliver victory in their crucial first matchup of the Asian championship. ◼
