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CPBL: Pitcher's superstition leads to catcher change before game

From Liberty Times · () Chinese

Translated from Chinese and summarized by DistantNews. Read the original for the full story.

At a glance

News Named sources Outcome reported
  • Tainan Heroes pitcher Elter surprised his coach by requesting to work with catcher Liu Shih-hao before a game against Wei Chuan Dragons.
  • Elter cited superstition and a better connection with Liu Shih-hao as reasons for his request, despite other catchers being available.
  • The pitcher's request was accommodated, and he went on to win the game after pitching six innings and allowing one run.

In a pre-game conversation that initially seemed like casual chat, Tainan Heroes coach Hung Yi-chung was approached by starting pitcher Elter with an unusual request. Elter, through team staff, asked to discuss something with Hung. This led to a private discussion in the dugout, after which Elter returned to his media interactions.

Elter suddenly found me before the game to discuss things. He felt he had a better connection with Liu Shih-hao. We prioritize the pitcher, so we went with the pitcher's preference.

— Hung Yi-chungExplaining his decision to change the starting catcher based on the pitcher's request.

The reason for the private meeting soon became clear: Elter wanted to pitch with catcher Liu Shih-hao. He explained that he felt a better connection and rhythm when paired with Liu, citing that they had worked together for 16 of his 18 starts that season. This preference, he admitted, was partly rooted in superstition, especially since this was his first start in three weeks.

Elter was quick to clarify that his request was not a reflection on the abilities of other catchers, Chen Shih-chia and Chen Chih-chia. He emphasized that his preference for Liu was purely personal and superstitious. He even had a premonition that Liu might not be the starting catcher for this particular game, which turned out to be true, prompting his proactive conversation with the coach.

In 16 of my 18 starts this season, I've been paired with Liu Shih-hao, and I feel more comfortable. It's also a bit of superstition, especially since this is my first start in three weeks.

— ElterExplaining his reasons for wanting to pitch with Liu Shih-hao.

Ultimately, Hung Yi-chung accommodated Elter's request, prioritizing the pitcher's comfort and perceived connection with his catcher. The decision proved to be a sound one, as Elter pitched effectively, completing six innings and allowing only one run, ultimately securing the win for the Tainan Heroes.

It's not that the other two catchers, Chen Shih-chia and Chen Chih-chia, are bad. It's just my superstition. I had a feeling before coming to the stadium today that it might not be Liu Shih-hao catching.

— ElterClarifying that his preference was personal and not a slight against other catchers.
About this summary

Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized automatically by DistantNews, with a note on how the source frames the story. Not individually reviewed before publishing. How this works.

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