Fubon's Chen Pin-Hung Makes First-Team Starting Debut as Planned; Huang Pao-Lo and Chen Shih-Peng Also Begin Playing

(CNA reporter Hsieh Ching-wen, New Taipei, 14th) Today, the CPBL's Fubon Guardians gave local left-handed pitcher Chen Pin-Hung his first-ever start in the first team. Pitching coach Hsu Ming-Chieh stated that this was according to the original plan and the timing was deemed appropriate. Additionally, two other local pitchers, Huang Pao-Lo and Chen Shih-Peng, have begun to play in games, hoping to be ready for a first-team call-up by the end of the month at the earliest.

The Guardians faced the Wei Chuan Dragons at their home field, Hsinchuang Baseball Stadium, today, starting local left-hander Chen Pin-Hung for the first time in his first-team career. Chen's previous first-team appearance was in relief in 2024, and he spent the entire last season developing in the minor leagues.

Hsu Ming-Chieh said that Chen has been adjusting well since this year's spring training, and it now seems suitable to give him a try as a starter in the first team. He also mentioned that if they had followed the original plan, he could have started earlier, but it was postponed due to rain, causing some concern about whether it would affect his conditioning.

Regarding any inning or pitch count limits for Chen's first-team debut, Hsu Ming-Chieh said it would depend on his performance today. While they don't want Chen to throw too much in his first start, they still hope he can pitch the required innings for a starter, which would also lessen the burden on the bullpen, especially since it's the first game of the week.

When asked if other local pitchers would be called up soon, Hsu Ming-Chieh mentioned that the minor league is continuously in season and they are currently lacking local starting pitchers. No one is specifically designated; whoever adjusts well will be called up first.

As for the recent status of pitchers Huang Pao-Lo and Chen Shih-Peng, Hsu Ming-Chieh noted that both pitched about 2 innings today. The next step in their plan is 4-5 innings. They could have a chance by the end of the month at the earliest, hoping to let the coaching staff know they are ready to be called up to the first team at any time. (Editor: Chen Jen-hua) 1150414