Wang Xuanqi Throws 147 km/h, Eyes Overseas Career After Resembling Li Zhenchang's Delivery

(CNA reporter Hsieh Ching-wen, New Taipei, June 13) In today's Jade Mountain Cup senior high school baseball tournament, Hsinchu City faced Chiayi City in the losers' bracket. Hsinchu's sidearm pitcher Wang Xuanqi, whose release point resembles that of Li Zhenchang, pitched two scoreless relief innings and reached 147 km/h on the radar gun. With international scouts watching, Wang has decided to attend university after graduation to further develop his skills and pursue an overseas career opportunity.

In the 115th Jade Mountain Cup, Hsinchu City trailed 0-2 after four innings against Chiayi City. In the bottom of the fifth, Hsinchu brought in sidearm pitcher Wang Xuanqi for relief. He pitched two innings without allowing a hit, issuing one walk and no runs. Despite his solid performance, Hsinchu failed to rally later in the game and lost. Wang was credited with no decision.

Wang previously recorded a top velocity of around 146 km/h during the Wang Cheng-chih Cup. Today's 147 km/h mark, captured by television broadcast radar, drew attention from scouts behind home plate, who quickly raised their radar guns upon his entrance.

When asked about his post-graduation plans, Wang said he will not enter the CPBL draft. Having shown strong performance in his senior year, he believes he has a chance to play abroad and wants to give it a try. He plans to first attend university to further hone his skills and increase his chances of going overseas.

Standing 183 cm tall and weighing 76 kg, Wang said he aims to improve his physical conditioning and gain weight to at least 80 kg. He has consulted with Lin Yi-hao, a coach from his home team who has overseas playing experience. Lin shared that during his time in Japan, many developmental players could throw over 150 km/h, emphasizing the need for Wang to increase his velocity to succeed abroad.

When asked if any professional players resemble his delivery, Wang said he is often compared to Li Zhenchang of the CTBC Brothers in the CPBL. He watches Li's pitching videos but does not刻意 mimic his mechanics, preferring to pitch in the way most comfortable for himself.

Wang also mentioned that although he already throws a changeup, it is not yet sharp enough. He hopes to refine it for better control and suppression. During his high school years, he aims to earn a spot on the national youth baseball team. (Editor: Lee Heng-shan) 1150613

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