Subheading: Six-time All-Star outfielder makes history with Taiwan’s longest professional baseball contract
In a landmark move in Taiwan’s professional baseball scene, Chen Tzu-hao (陳子豪), a six-time All-Star outfielder, has signed a historic 10-year contract with the Wei Chuan Dragons, making it the longest contract in the history of the Chinese Professional Baseball League (CPBL). The deal marks a major shift in Taiwan’s baseball landscape, as it is the first CPBL contract to exceed five years.
Chen’s Move from CTBC Brothers to Wei Chuan Dragons
Sources close to the matter revealed on Friday that Chen, 29, has decided to leave his long-time team, the CTBC Brothers, and join the Wei Chuan Dragons. This significant move represents a new chapter in the career of one of Taiwan’s most prominent baseball players, who has been with the Brothers since he was selected in the 2013 draft.
Details of the Historic Deal
The 10-year contract is reportedly valued at around NT$100 million (approximately US$3.06 million), setting a new record for CPBL contracts. While the full terms of the deal remain undisclosed, sources indicate that it includes both franchise and player options, allowing flexibility for both parties.
This historic agreement surpasses the previous record held by Yu Chang, whose contract with the Fubon Guardians was worth NT$92.5 million for 3.5 years. With this new deal, Chen Tzu-hao becomes the highest-paid player in the history of Taiwan’s professional baseball leagues.
Chen’s Impressive Career and 2024 Season Performance
Chen, one of the most recognized figures in the CPBL, was among the first high school players to enter the draft in 2013, which was the year Taiwan introduced a separate draft for high school players. He was picked seventh overall by the Brother Elephants (now CTBC Brothers), and he has played for them consistently until the end of the 2024 season.
In 2024, Chen recorded 83 hits, including 17 home runs, with 60 RBIs and a .276 batting average over 87 regular-season games. His strong performance was one of the key factors that led to his record-breaking contract with the Wei Chuan Dragons.
A Shift in Power: The End of an Era for CTBC Brothers
Chen’s decision to leave the CTBC Brothers marks the first time in the franchise’s history that it has lost a player to free agency without being able to retain them. This departure is a major shift, as the Brothers, previously known as the Brother Elephants, have long been a dominant force in Taiwan’s professional baseball scene.
Key Facts: Chen Tzu-hao’s Historic 10-Year Deal
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Contract Length | 10 years |
| Contract Value | NT$100 million (approx. US$3.06 million) |
| Team | Wei Chuan Dragons |
| Previous Team | CTBC Brothers |
| 2024 Stats | 83 hits, 17 home runs, 60 RBIs, .276 batting average |
| Historic Significance | Longest contract in CPBL history |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the significance of Chen Tzu-hao’s 10-year deal?
Chen’s 10-year contract with the Wei Chuan Dragons is the longest deal ever in Taiwan’s professional baseball history, setting a new precedent for player contracts in the CPBL.
2. How much is Chen’s contract worth?
The total value of Chen’s contract is reported to be NT$100 million (around US$3.06 million), making it the highest-paid contract in the league.
3. Why did Chen leave the CTBC Brothers?
Chen chose to sign with the Wei Chuan Dragons after spending his entire career with the CTBC Brothers. The move is seen as a fresh start and an opportunity to make history with a new team.
4. What was Chen’s performance like in 2024?
In 2024, Chen played 87 regular-season games, posting a batting average of .276, with 83 hits, 17 home runs, and 60 RBIs, showcasing his consistency and offensive power.
5. Is this contract fully guaranteed?
While the specifics of the contract’s guarantees have not been disclosed, local reports suggest it is likely to include franchise and player options, offering flexibility.
Conclusion: A New Chapter for Chen Tzu-hao and Taiwan’s Baseball Scene
Chen Tzu-hao’s decision to join the Wei Chuan Dragons on a 10-year deal is not only a personal milestone but also a significant event in the history of Taiwan’s CPBL. As one of Taiwan’s most talented and accomplished players, his move marks a new era in both his career and the landscape of professional baseball in Taiwan.
Stay tuned for more updates on this groundbreaking contract and the latest developments in Taiwan’s baseball world, right here at CialisWeb.
