Taiwan's 20-Year-Old Pitching Prospect Chen Mu-heng Dominates in Japanese Minor League

Taiwanese pitching prospect Chen Mu-heng showcased his talent with a dominant performance in his second start for the Orix Buffaloes' farm team. The 20-year-old fireballer pitched five scoreless innings, allowing just one hit and striking out three batters, significantly lowering his earned run average to a stellar 0.66.

Chen, who was previously an ace pitcher for the U18 Asian Championship-winning team, earned a contract with the Buffaloes after his impressive showing. In his first year playing professionally in Japan, he appeared in five games, starting two, and posted a 1-0 record with a 1.17 ERA.

His consistent performance in the farm league this season earned him recognition and a promotion to a full-fledged player status, where he now wears jersey number 92. "I am truly very happy and full of gratitude," Chen stated. "From now on, I will give my all, hoping to become a valuable asset to the first team as soon as possible and to showcase my best performance in my debut."

On Monday, Chen started against the Yakult Swallows' farm team, throwing 72 pitches. His fastest pitch clocked at 149 kilometers per hour (92.6 mph). He issued three walks but kept the Swallows scoreless, outdueling their starter, former MLB pitcher Kōyō Aoyagi. This outing positions Chen well for a potential second win of the season and a quicker path to the major league roster.

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I am truly very happy and full of gratitude. From now on, I will give my all, hoping to become a valuable asset to the first team as soon as possible and to showcase my best performance in my debut.