Chiu Chih-cheng Acts as Offensive 'Catalyst', Hits First Homer in Two Months to Lead Lions to Victory

(Central News Agency reporter Hsieh Ching-wen, Taipei, 2nd) CPBL Uni-President 7-ELEVEn Lions player Chiu Chih-cheng's batting is heating up. On Tuesday, he hit a go-ahead three-run home run, acting as an offensive 'catalyst' to lead his team to a 7-3 victory over the CTBC Brothers. Regarding his first home run in nearly two months, he said, "I've been waiting for this for a long time. I'm very happy I could hit it in that at-bat and help the team."

Chiu had previously encountered a slump and was sent down to the minor leagues for adjustment. After returning to the first team, he gradually regained his good form. In Tuesday's game against the CTBC Brothers, with the team trailing by one run in the fifth inning, he hit a three-run home run to give the Lions the lead. He finished the game with 3 hits and 4 RBIs, helping the team secure the win and earning the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award for the second consecutive game.

Lions manager Lin Yueh-ping said that Chiu has been playing better and better since returning to the first team. He is a capable leadoff hitter who contributes to the team in both scoring and offense, making him an important offensive 'catalyst.'

Chiu stated that he has been maintaining a good feel recently, working hard to adjust through practice and doing what he needs to do. Regarding the home run at-bat in the fifth inning, he said that with the count at 2-3, he didn't set his sights on anything specific; he just actively attacked any pitch that entered the strike zone.

It has been nearly two months since his last home run on April 5. Chiu said, "I've been waiting for this home run for a long time. I'm really glad I could hit it in that at-bat and contribute to the team. I also thank the coaching staff for giving me a lot of space and opportunities to adjust."

Lin Yueh-ping had previously mentioned that Chiu's condition was warming up and he was gradually finding the good feeling he had when he won the batting title in 2024. Chiu said, "I'm slowly getting back to my old, good rhythm. I hope I can maintain this, take it step by step, and help the team win the championship at the end of the year." (Editor: Chen Jen-hua) 1150602