TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Chen Yung-chi (陳鏞基), a star player for the Uni-President 7-Eleven Lions (統一獅) in the Chinese Professional Baseball League, announced his retirement on Friday (Jan. 16). He likened his final season to a "graduation ceremony," expressing a desire to inspire fans rather than dwell on sadness. Chen stated that he aims to build on his record as the team's home run leader.
Flight International (展逸國際), Chen's management agency, hosted a media luncheon on Friday, during which he announced his retirement in a relaxed manner. He revealed that three years ago, he contemplated retirement during a performance slump. However, his resurgence in 2023 revitalized his career.
In recent seasons, Chen consistently hit five home runs per season, bringing his total to 136 last year, making him the Lions' all-time home run leader. He stated that he hopes to reach the 140-home run milestone and go even higher.
Last season, he considered retirement and discussed it with his family, receiving their support and blessings. He expressed gratitude to fans for their unwavering support, although he has no plans for a retirement ceremony yet. With Tainan Baseball Stadium no longer hosting first-team games this year, Chen looks forward to being the first to retire at the Asia-Pacific Baseball Stadium.
