What are Liu Chun-Wei's stats after the 8th inning?

A .483 batting average, 2 HRs, 24 total bases, and a .828 slugging percentage—the best among players with 20+ at-bats.

How does Liu compare to Ma Yan in late innings?

Same home runs and total bases, but Liu has a higher slugging percentage (.828 vs .686).

Why does Liu perform better in later innings?

He adapts to game rhythm early, prepares well as a pinch hitter, and thrives under pressure with adrenaline.

What does manager Yeh Chun-Chang say about Liu?

He praises Liu’s 'strong focus,' especially in high-pressure, game-deciding moments.

What’s expected from Liu next?

More pinch-hit appearances are likely, especially in close games during the playoff race.

Liu Chun-Wei Emerges as Clutch Hitter, Matches Ma Yan's Late-Inning Performance in 8th Inning Onwards

Published Jun 14, 2026 3:23 PM ・ Updated Jun 27, 2026 8:14 PM ・ 4 min read ・ Source: CNA (Central News Agency)

Wei Chuan Dragons outfielder Liu Chun-Wei has become known as a 'clutch hitter,' with both of his home runs this season coming after the 7th inning. His late-game offensive stats rival those of power hitter Ma Yan (Steven Moya), drawing praise for his focus in critical moments.

(Central News Agency reporter Su Chih-Yu, Taipei, 14th) Wei Chuan Dragons outfielder Liu Chun-Wei has earned the nickname 'clutch killer,' with both of his home runs this season hit after the 8th inning. His offensive statistics in late innings match those of powerful slugger Ma Yan (Steven Moya) of the TSG Hawks. Liu joked, 'Opportunities to bat in crucial moments are rare, so of course I get more excited.'

In the Chinese Professional Baseball League (CPBL) this season, Liu boasts a .483 batting average after the 8th inning—the highest among players with over 20 at-bats. His two home runs and 24 total bases equal those of TSG Hawks' Ma Yan (Steven Moya), while his .828 slugging percentage even surpasses Ma Yan’s .686.

Speaking to CNA today, Liu said his strong performance in later innings may stem from becoming accustomed to the game's rhythm earlier, having more time to prepare as a pinch hitter, and the adrenaline rush when facing close scores with runners on base. 'But it also means I didn’t perform well earlier—I can’t just rely on hitting after the 8th,' he added.

Liu noted that he still needs to improve against starting pitchers: 'Relief pitchers are relatively easier for me to handle, probably because their pitch selection is more consistent. Starting pitchers change their strategies during games.'

This season, Liu has accumulated 14 hits after the 8th inning, including two home runs, two doubles, and one triple. Dragons manager Yeh Chun-Chang highlighted his standout trait: 'His focus is very strong.' Yeh explained that while some players excel in national team settings, they don’t always stand out in regular season play. 'Everyone has different mental strengths and peak focus moments, but he becomes especially focused at those critical times.' (Editor: Li Shu-Hua) 1150614

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Source: CNA (Central News Agency)
Category: Taiwan

Liu Chun-Wei Emerges as Clutch Hitter, Matches Ma Yan's Late-Inning Performance in 8th Inning Onwards

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