Nantou Wins Crucial Playoff Game at Yu-Shan Cup with Chuan Chih-Hsien's 2 Hits and 1 RBI

Central News Agency Report

(CNA reporter Hsieh Ching-wen, New Taipei, June 13) In the Yu-Shan Cup youth baseball tournament, Nantou County faced Taipei City in a do-or-die playoff game. Chuan Chih-Hsien contributed two hits, one RBI, and one stolen base, leading his team to a 3-0 victory and keeping their advancement hopes alive.

In the 115th Yu-Shan Cup youth baseball tournament, Nantou County played Taipei City in a critical elimination game. In the top of the first inning, after a hit-by-pitch and a sacrifice bunt advanced the runner, Chuan Chih-Hsien delivered an RBI single to open the scoring. Huang Hao-Yu followed with a triple to add another run, and with two outs, Hu Pin-Yu added an insurance run with a single.

Nantou's starting pitcher, Chang Ko-Chin, threw 94 pitches over seven innings, allowing only two hits with four strikeouts and three walks, while recording a shutout to secure the crucial win.

Nantou coach Yao Yu-Hsiang stated that senior player Chuan Chih-Hsien, batting in the heart of the order, plays a key role in lifting team morale whenever he reaches base or gets a hit. Chuan also singled and stole second base in the third inning but suffered a hand injury upon sliding back to base. After basic first aid, he remained in the game. Yao noted that the player reported the infield had hardened due to continuous rain, causing skin abrasion on his palm. Whether the injury will affect future appearances remains under observation.

Yao added that with games now being broadcast and video footage available online, players have developed the habit of scouting opponents. After daily team gatherings, the captain leads discussions to formulate strategies.

Yao, who has prior experience in the Chinese Professional Baseball League (CPBL), has been coaching at Nantou's Chung-Hsing High School for about two and a half years. He shared that coaching high school players today differs from his own high school days, emphasizing the need to build rapport, understand players' perspectives, and integrate with them.