De Paula Delivers Strong Performance in First-Team Return After 333 Days; Hirano Points Out Two Areas for Improvement

CTBC Brothers foreign pitcher Jose De Paula returned to CPBL first-team action on May 3 after a 333-day hiatus. He delivered a quality start, pitching 6 innings and allowing only 1 run, though he received a no-decision. Manager Keiichi Hirano expressed that it felt good to see De Paula back on the mound but highlighted two specific areas for improvement. De Paula had been sidelined since June 4, 2025, due to a season-ending injury. In his comeback game against the TSG Hawks, he allowed only 3 hits, struck out 5, and issued 1 walk. De Paula credited his performance to consistent preparation since spring training and expressed gratitude for his healthy return, noting he wasn''t particularly nervous. He also encouraged his teammates amidst the team''s slow start to the season, emphasizing that slumps are temporary and can be overcome through hard work. Hirano noted that while the comeback was positive, De Paula should aim to pitch longer innings and must address the issue of giving up runs immediately after the Brothers score.