Taiwan baseball league president defends entertainment-focused all-star game

The president of Taiwan's Chinese Professional Baseball Organization (CPBL), Tsai Chi-chang, has defended the league's decision to incorporate retired stars and entertainment elements into its all-star game. Responding to criticism that the event has become too "showbiz," Tsai asserted that such adjustments are vital for the league's survival and growth.

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The league must survive, so we must make the pie bigger.

"The league must survive, so we must make the pie bigger," Tsai stated, acknowledging that he himself was once a fan who didn't particularly watch all-star games. He emphasized that the definition of an all-star game evolves and that current trends might not be universally accepted in the future. "There is no absolute right or wrong," he added, suggesting that adaptability is key in the dynamic sports industry.

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There is no absolute right or wrong.

Tsai pointed to the league's recent success, with four consecutive sell-out crowds of 40,000 fans, as evidence that the current approach resonates with the audience. "If everyone disliked it, no one would buy tickets, and products wouldn't sell out," he reasoned, highlighting that fan preferences ultimately dictate the league's direction. He stressed that the league, lacking massive corporate backing, must prioritize market appeal and profitability to thrive.

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If everyone disliked it, no one would buy tickets, and products wouldn't sell out.

The CPBL president expressed gratitude for the league staff's efforts and the fans' support. He noted that the league continuously seeks fan input to guide its adjustments. "They don't think for themselves, they ask us what we want most," he said, underscoring a fan-centric approach to development. Tsai concluded by stating that while the current strategy is working, the league remains dynamic and open to future adjustments based on evolving fan sentiment.

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They don't think for themselves, they ask us what we want most.