Chang Yi-An Appointed Captain of Taiwan's U-18 Baseball Training Team, Sets One-Year Goal for Overseas Career

(Taipei, New Taipei City, July 13 – Reporter Hsieh Ching-wen) Taiwan's training squad for the Asian U-18 Baseball Championship began its official training today, with two-way player Chang Yi-An appointed as team captain. Chang expressed that while public attention brings pressure, he hopes to overcome last year's disappointing international performance and deliver a solid showing this year. He has also set a personal one-year timeline to pursue an overseas career.

The training camp kicked off today under head coach Yang Hsiao-cheng, with Chang Yi-An named captain, and vice-captains Huang Shih-yao (catcher) and Tsai Chen-lung (pitcher).

In an interview with CNA, Chang noted that although he previously served as captain at his high school team, Goubao Senior High, being captain of the national team feels different and comes with greater visibility. On the first day of training, his main role was communicating schedules and reminding teammates of key points.

Chang represented Taiwan at last year's U-18 Baseball World Cup but underperformed. Reflecting on that experience, he recalled struggling with his form during the latter half of training camp, which never recovered during the tournament, causing his mechanics to break down. With another chance at an international youth tournament, he hopes to stay calm and perform at his normal level.

Head coach Yang Hsiao-cheng stated that Chang will continue to be utilized as a two-way player—starting as a position player and potentially pitching in the latter innings of games.

Chang, who recently graduated, chose not to enter the Chinese Professional Baseball League (CPBL) draft this year, instead focusing on pursuing an overseas opportunity. He has set a one-year goal to secure an overseas contract. If he fails to do so within that timeframe, he plans to reconsider entering the CPBL draft. He hopes strong performances on the international youth stage will catch the attention of foreign scouts. (Editor: Richard Kuan) 1150713