CPBL: A disastrous warm-up leads Li Dong-ming to an incredible league record after 23 years

Fubon Guardians pitcher Li Dong-ming achieved a remarkable and unusual feat in Taiwan's professional baseball league, securing a victory despite a disastrous pre-game warm-up. Li pitched six innings, allowing just one run, to lead his team to a 4-1 win over the Uni-President Lions.

Despite admitting his pre-game throwing felt "disastrous" and he struggled to find his rhythm, Li demonstrated exceptional control and resilience. He issued four walks and recorded zero strikeouts, a combination that typically hinders a pitcher's success. However, his ability to navigate through these challenges and limit the damage was crucial for the Guardians.

This performance etched Li's name into league history. The last time a pitcher recorded a win with at least four walks and no strikeouts while delivering a quality start was 23 years ago, on May 25, 2003, by Tsai Shih-chin of the former Chinatrust Whales. Li's win was his seventh of the season, lowering his ERA to 1.79, ranking him fourth in the league.

The victory also solidified the Fubon Guardians' hold on third place in the standings, setting up a crucial upcoming series against the Wei Chuan Dragons, who are vying for the first-half championship. The Guardians' offense provided early support, capitalizing on a first-inning stolen base tactic to break the Lions' defense.

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I'm also learning how to eat the innings I'm supposed to eat when I'm not in good shape.