Wang Chien-ming Pitches in All-Star Game, Admits Nerves Facing League Chairman

Former baseball star Wang Chien-ming returned to the pitcher's mound for his second appearance in the CPBL All-Star Game, facing off against Chinese Professional Baseball League chairman Tsai Chi-chang. Wang confessed to feeling more nervous this time around, specifically expressing concern about hitting the chairman.

“

Because I was facing the chairman, I was afraid I might hit him, and I was sweating.

During the game, Tsai Chi-chang entered as a pinch hitter in the eighth inning. After three balls, he hit a grounder to shortstop, which was fielded for an infield single. Wang then remained on the mound to face Chen Chih-hsiung, successfully inducing a ground ball for a double play.

Wang noted Tsai Chi-chang's bravery at the plate, standing close to home plate without flinching. He mentioned that his initial plan was to pitch only to Tsai, but the game continued. He also felt Chen Chih-hsiung held back during their at-bat. A planned demonstration of the ABS system by Tsai was also part of the event, though Wang's initial three balls were unintentional misses.

“

The chairman was quite brave, standing at the plate very close to home plate without dodging.

Despite not having pitched in a while, Wang had modest expectations for himself. He was pleased to see his pitch speed reach 110 kph, considering it a decent performance.

“

I told them, the chairman is done, I should be done too, but they weren't looking at me.