Puyuma survivor Wang Yu-fei drafted by CTBC Brothers, 6 'Love to Bat' players chosen in CPBL draft

(CNA reporter Hsieh Ching-wen, New Taipei, June 30) CTBC Charity Foundation announced today that CTBC Brothers selected Wang Yu-fei, a survivor of the Puyuma train derailment, in the 11th round of the draft, inspired by his story, and Chairman Jeffrey Koo Jr. continues to show concern. In addition, six players from the CTBC Charity Foundation's 'Love to Bat Project' were selected in the Chinese Professional Baseball League (CPBL) draft this year.

CTBC Charity Foundation Chairman Jeffrey Koo Jr. believes that baseball can transform the lives of children in rural areas. Since 2014, he has promoted the 'Love to Bat Project,' which currently supports 23 rural junior and senior little league baseball teams, providing nutritional meals, academic tutoring, and baseball equipment. To date, it has nurtured 25 professional baseball players and 42 national team members, continuously injecting new talent into Taiwanese baseball.

The six 'Love to Bat' players selected in this year's CPBL draft include Huang Ching-che (1st round, Uni-President 7-Eleven Lions), Hsu Shu-cheng (1st round, CTBC Brothers), Yu Cheng-yi (4th round, Rakuten Monkeys), Kuo Ching-yuan (7th round, Lions), Hung Chia-en (9th round, Wei Chuan Dragons), and Wu Chia-chun (9th round, CTBC Brothers).

Notably, Wang Yu-fei, selected by CTBC Brothers in the 11th round, has a deep connection with CTBC. Wang Yu-fei was unfortunately involved in the Puyuma accident in 2018, but he never gave up his baseball dream. After enduring a long period of rehabilitation, he is currently studying at CTBC Institute of Technology and plays as an outfielder for the CTBC Institute of Technology baseball team.

CTBC Charity Foundation Chairman Jeffrey Koo Jr. has been concerned about Wang Yu-fei's condition for several years. Last year, he happened to learn that Wang Yu-fei's younger brother, Wang Yu-hsiang, was a national player in the Asia Junior Baseball Championship. After winning the championship, he specially invited Wang Yu-fei to attend the celebration banquet and encouraged him in person to continue pursuing his dream.

Wang Yu-fei was invited to be the ceremonial first pitch guest for the CTBC Brothers in 2020. The team specially arranged for his idol, "Chacha" Peng Cheng-min, to be the batter. That year, he made a wish to become a member of the CTBC Brothers one day. Unexpectedly, six years later, Wang Yu-fei advanced through the tryouts to become eligible for the draft. Under the leadership of the new general manager Peng Cheng-min, he was successfully selected by the CTBC Brothers, having the opportunity to wear the yellow jersey and fulfill his dream. His story has moved countless people.

The CTBC Charity Foundation press release mentioned that CTBC is the first enterprise in Taiwan to invest in all levels of baseball. For over a decade, it has continuously supported rural children in pursuing their baseball dreams. Every player who successfully reaches the professional league has an inspiring story behind them and serves as a role model for children. Looking ahead, CTBC will continue to root itself in grassroots baseball, support young players in bravely chasing their dreams, and help Taiwanese baseball shine. (Editor: Chen Jen-hua) 1150630

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