Red Sox Triple-A's Cheng Tsung-chieh Hits 6th Homer of Season, Turns Two Double Plays in Defense

(CNA reporter Su Chih-yu, Taipei, June 17) Taiwanese infielder Cheng Tsung-chieh of the Boston Red Sox's Triple-A team in Minor League Baseball (MiLB) hit a home run today, his 6th of the season, and recorded two double plays on defense, helping his team defeat the Philadelphia Phillies' Triple-A team 5-3.

Cheng started today batting ninth and playing second base. In his first at-bat in the top of the 2nd inning, he drew a walk. In the top of the 5th, he hit a solo home run to center field with an exit velocity of 104.8 mph, bringing his team within one run at 2-3. That inning, the Red Sox Triple-A tied the game with a successful double steal.

In the top of the 6th, Cheng hit a ground ball that resulted in a runner being thrown out, while Cheng reached base on a fielder's choice. In the top of the 9th, leading off as the first batter, he grounded out to shortstop. Meanwhile, the Red Sox Triple-A loaded the bases in the 9th via a hit-by-pitch and walks, then scored two runs on consecutive singles by Anthony Seigler and Mikey Romero to secure the victory.

Cheng finished the game 1-for-3 with a home run and an RBI, plus one walk. His batting average stands at .246 after the game. He also participated in double plays in the 7th and 8th innings. (Edited by Chang Ya-ching) 1150617