CPBL: Manager praises catcher Chang Hsiang, who seeks defensive improvement

Uni-President Lions manager Lin Yue-ping has singled out catcher Chang Hsiang as a standout performer this season, asserting that his contributions are on par with the league's top catchers. Lin specifically noted Chang's ability to fill a crucial role for the team, alongside closer Chung Yun-hua, who also earned praise.

“

Chang Hsiang should reduce his unforced errors, especially the number of passed balls. But overall, his performance is not inferior to Chung Yun-hua, nor to the number one catchers of other teams.

Despite the manager's commendation, Chang Hsiang remains his own harshest critic. He admitted to being unsatisfied with his defensive efforts, acknowledging a high number of passed balls and areas needing improvement in blocking. "There were many mistakes, and I'm learning from them," Chang stated. While pleased with his offensive output, which exceeded expectations, he emphasized the need to refine his catching skills.

“

There were many mistakes, and I'm learning from them. My hitting is better than expected, but my defense has had many passed balls this year, and my blocking hasn't been good either.

Chang Hsiang's strong arm is evident in his impressive 69.2% caught-stealing rate, though he credits his middle infielders for assisting in those plays. He also identified chemistry with foreign pitchers as a current challenge, noting occasional differences in game strategy. Chang is actively seeking to improve, sharing experiences with veteran catcher Chen Chung-yu and proactively asking questions.

“

Some of it is thanks to the help of my second and third basemen teammates, thank you to them.

Looking ahead, Chang Hsiang expressed excitement about his first All-Star Game selection, where he will represent TEAM TAIWAN. He anticipates playing alongside the nation's elite players and hopes to earn a spot on the national team for the Asia Professional Baseball Championship later in the year.

“

I'm very happy. My impression of the All-Star Game is that Taiwan's elites are all together, and I'm looking forward to it. Of course, I also look forward to being selected for the Asia Professional Baseball Championship at the end of the year.