Kao Chiu Sheng-hung of the Asian Youth Baseball Championship training team: Versatility and striving for growth

(CNA Reporter Hsieh Ching-wen, New Taipei, 17th) Kao Chiu Sheng-hung of the Asian Youth Baseball Championship training team is a utility player capable of both infield and outfield. With an advantage in speed, he collected 3 hits in the first two Blue-White exhibition games. Kao stated that joining the training team to compete with the country's top youth baseball players allows him to improve further.

The training team plans to arrange 5 Blue-White exhibition games to observe player performance and narrow down the roster. Kao had 2 hits in 3 at-bats in the first game yesterday and 1 hit in 3 at-bats today, totaling 3 hits in two games.

Head Coach Yang Hsiao-cheng mentioned that since the final roster for the Asian Youth Baseball Championship is only 18 players, versatility is a key consideration. Kao can play both infield and outfield, primarily playing second base. In his team, Kuo-Bau Home Economics and Commerce Vocational High School, he has the second-fastest speed and a high hitting rate.

Kao, transitioning from his second to third year of high school, told CNA that he had no national team experience previously but played in the Pony League in junior high, which broadened his horizons by witnessing the bold style of the U.S. team.

Kao can play center field, left field, and second base. He said, "It depends on where the coaching staff puts me; I will find a way to deliver my best performance."

Kao's father is Chiu Yao-yu, the head coach of the Erchong Junior High School baseball team. Chiu was also present to check on Kao's game today. Kao laughed, "Whether I play well or poorly, I will see a 'surprise' message from my father after the game. Seeing him at the game makes me more nervous and focused."

Although Kao's stature is not prominent, he mentioned his father has been reminding him to eat more to grow stronger. Joining the training team, which gathers the current best youth baseball players in the country, allows for competitive learning and further improvement. If he has a chance to stay on the final roster, he will maintain a calm mindset and perform at his best.