Yu Shan Cup: Zhang Yi-An Recovers from Early Error to Lead New Taipei to Second Consecutive Final

In the 2026 Yu Shan Cup semi-finals held on the 19th, New Taipei City overcame an early defensive lapse by Zhang Yi-An to defeat Tainan City 10-4. After trailing by three runs in the first inning due to an error, Zhang contributed two hits and two RBIs to help his team advance to the championship game for the second consecutive year.

Tainan City capitalized on a first-inning error by Zhang and RBI hits from Chen Xin-An and Zeng Yi-Wei to knock out New Taipei starter Hsu Chen-Wei early. New Taipei responded in the bottom of the first, with Chen Yao-Jie driving in two runs to tie the game. After Tainan regained the lead in the second inning, New Taipei surged in the third with a multi-run rally, highlighted by Zhang's two-RBI double, eventually securing the victory.

New Taipei manager Yang Hsiao-Cheng noted that while the starting pitcher was affected by defensive play, the bullpen remained effective, led by Yang Yao-Cheng who pitched three scoreless innings to earn the win. Despite the early error, Zhang remained composed at the plate. He stated that he aims to maintain his focus for the championship game, as the team looks to play steady baseball and rely on collective efforts to secure the title.