Hsu Ruo-hsu Returns: Taiwanese Pitcher Dazzles with 157 km/h Fastball in 5 Scoreless Innings

Taiwanese pitcher Hsu Ruo-hsu made a triumphant return to the SoftBank Hawks' starting rotation on May 31, 2026, delivering a strong performance against the Hiroshima Carp at Fukuoka PayPay Dome. The 25-year-old right-hander pitched five scoreless innings, striking out five batters and allowing only one hit. He threw 72 pitches in his outing.

Hsu's return marked a significant moment after a challenging period. Following a win in his Japanese professional baseball debut on April 1, he had lost his next three starts. His most recent outing on May 15 saw him give up seven runs in just 1.2 innings. He was subsequently sent down to the minor leagues for adjustments. There, he showcased his potential by throwing a complete game nine-inning shutout against the Carp's minor league team on May 22, requiring 87 pitches.

In his return to the top team, Hsu immediately demonstrated his regained form. He consistently threw fastballs exceeding 150 km/h, with his fourth pitch to the leadoff hitter registering an impressive 157 km/h. Despite a leadoff single, Hsu and his catcher, Yutaro Yamamoto, who threw out a runner attempting to steal second, managed to escape the first inning unscathed, effectively achieving a three-up, three-down scenario. His performance signals a positive turn for the Taiwanese pitcher.