Rakuten Monkeys promote Daway Sheng, may debut dual foreign sluggers

The Rakuten Monkeys, currently leading the second half of the Taiwan Series, are set to potentially field a dual foreign batter lineup. The team announced the promotion of foreign hitter Daway Sheng to the first team on August 13, 2026, ahead of a crucial three-game series against the Wei Chuan Dragons at the Taipei Dome.

Rakuten signed two foreign batters, Daway Sheng and Wike, on July 6. Sheng initially struggled, striking out nine times in 23 at-bats with a .143 batting average, leading to his demotion to the second team on July 23. In contrast, Wike has shown power, hitting four home runs.

Sheng's performance in the second team improved significantly, batting .378 with 43 at-bats over 11 games. Although eligible to return earlier, the coaching staff opted to bring him up on a rest day, sending infielder Chang Chao-hung to the second team. This strategic move suggests the team is looking to bolster its offensive capabilities with Sheng's return, especially as they aim to maintain their lead in the standings.