TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Wei Chuan Dragons (味全龍) announced on Monday (Dec. 22) that pitcher Hsu Jo-hsi (徐若熙) will join the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks for the 2026 season, marking the start of his career in Japan's professional baseball league. Hsu, who joined the Dragons in 2019, quickly became a core player and a representative pitcher in the Chinese Professional Baseball League (CPBL, 中華職棒).
The Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks' interest in and recognition of Hsu reflects the team's high regard for his talent, which the Dragons see as a significant honor. This move signifies a step forward for Taiwanese baseball talent on the international stage. Hsu will wear the No. 18 jersey, symbolizing an ace pitcher, and will attend a press conference on Friday (Dec. 26) to mark his signing.
Hsu signed a three-year contract with the Hawks, valued at approximately NT$288 million, highlighting the team's commitment to him. Dragons General Manager Ding Chung-wei (丁仲緯) expressed his best wishes for Hsu, hoping he will shine in Japan's league and that the collaboration with the Hawks will drive the evolution of the Dragons while energizing Taiwan's baseball environment.
Meanwhile, speculation surrounds Japanese free agent Ryousuke Tatsumi (辰己涼介) and the possibility of his coming to Taiwan. However, many believe that his chances of staying in Japan are higher due to his five consecutive Gold Glove Awards and salary considerations. Tatsumi's connection with Chiang Kuo-Hao (江國豪) during the WBSC Premier12 tournament, where they exchanged gifts, has also enhanced his image among Taiwanese fans.
