Dragons' Chang Cheng-yu Eyes Golden Glove with Stellar Defense

Wei Chuan Dragons shortstop Chang Cheng-yu is emerging as a strong candidate for this season's Golden Glove award, showcasing exceptional defensive prowess. With a .986 fielding percentage and only three errors this season, Chang leads all primary shortstops in the league in these key metrics. His consistent performance and occasional spectacular plays at shortstop position him as a significant challenger to Chiang Kun-yu's bid for a seventh consecutive Golden Glove.

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It would be a lie to say I haven't thought about it. With over 40 games left in the season, it's still a bit early to be thinking about the Golden Glove. I'll focus on doing my best defensively in each game. If I have a chance, of course, I want to compete for it, but if I don't win, I won't be too disappointed.

Chang has appeared in 63 games at shortstop this season. Should he play an additional 17 games at the position, he will meet the 80-game threshold required for Golden Glove consideration. He acknowledges that the Golden Glove has always been a personal goal. "It would be a lie to say I haven't thought about it," Chang stated. "With over 40 games left in the season, it's still a bit early to be thinking about the Golden Glove. I'll focus on doing my best defensively in each game. If I have a chance, of course, I want to compete for it, but if I don't win, I won't be too disappointed."

Chang views Chiang Kun-yu's multiple Golden Glove wins as a testament to his consistently recognized stable defense. However, Chang's focus is not on ending Chiang's streak but on showcasing his own style and earning a career honor. "I'm just doing my best with what I can do, and I'll leave the rest to everyone's evaluation," he said.

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I'm just doing my best with what I can do, and I'll leave the rest to everyone's evaluation.

Reflecting on his improved defense this year, Chang attributes it partly to becoming a father. He explained that fatherhood has taught him patience and a more measured approach. "When a child is crying or fussy, getting angry or scolding them is useless. Many things require a step-by-step process," Chang noted. This newfound patience translates to the field, where he now takes a moment to ensure each step of a play is executed correctly, rather than rushing to make a throw immediately after fielding the ball.

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When a child is crying or fussy, getting angry or scolding them is useless. Many things require a step-by-step process.