Liu Chi-hung to Join Asian Games Squad, Wei Chuan Dragons Adjust Infield

(CNA, Taipei, July 3) The Wei Chuan Dragons infield underwent a major reshuffling in their first game of the second half of the Chinese Professional Baseball League season. Head coach Yeh Chun-chang revealed that Liu Chi-hung will be called up for the Asian Games, necessitating an early search for alternative players. Liu Chi-hung admitted that while he wants to help the team secure the overall championship, representing his country is also very important.

The Dragons tried a new lineup today with Liu Chun-wei at third base, Chang Cheng-yu at second base, and Namo Yi-yang at shortstop. Yeh Chun-chang explained that third baseman Liu Chi-hung will be absent during the Nagoya Asian Games in September, and second baseman Li Kai-wei was given a rest due to his less favorable statistics against the opposing pitcher today.

The Dragons, having won the first half championship, have the flexibility to find replacements for Liu Chi-hung during his absence. Yeh Chun-chang stated his hope to provide maximum support with minimal impact on the regular season. "I said no problem, if the country needs it, we can cooperate. The players also want to bring honor to the country."

Liu Chi-hung said he received the notification only a few days ago and feels conflicted about being called up during the CPBL season. "I want to help the team, but I also want to bring honor to the country."

However, Liu Chi-hung is looking forward to the opportunity to face strong Korean players in the Asian Games, specifically mentioning slugger Kim Do-young, whom he played against in a warm-up game for the 2024 WBSC Premier12, and ace pitcher Kwak Bin, whom he encountered in the 2023 Asia Professional Baseball Championship Series. "Their lineup is quite formidable." (Edited by Lung Po-an) 1150703

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