Taiwanese Pitcher Sun Yi-Lei Blazes 157 KPH, Strikes Out Two in Dominant Relief Outing

Taiwanese fireballer Sun Yi-Lei showcased his pitching prowess on June 4, delivering a dominant one-inning relief appearance for the Nippon-Ham Fighters' second team. The 21-year-old, nicknamed the "Treasure of Taiwan," struck out two batters and issued one walk, while reaching a blistering 157 kilometers per hour with his fastball.

Sun Yi-Lei, who was promoted to a salaried player last year, has appeared in nine games for the Fighters' top squad this season, posting a 0-2 record with one save and four holds, and an ERA of 5.11. He has yet to be called up to the first team this season.

In his recent outing against the Chunichi Dragons' second team, Sun Yi-Lei entered the game in the top of the eighth inning with a runner on first due to an error. He allowed the first batter to reach on an error but quickly recovered, inducing a line-out. After issuing a walk to put runners on first and second, he settled down to strike out the next two batters, including Cuban slugger Christian Rodriguez, to end the inning.

The Fighters' second team ultimately won the game 6-1. Sun Yi-Lei's performance lowered his ERA in the minor league to 2.54. His outing included two strikeouts and one walk, with his fastest pitch clocked at 157 kph.