"Celebration Baby" bids farewell to Fubon Guardians as Uni-Lions select Chiang Shao-ching as FA compensation pick

The Uni-Lions finalized their selection of Chiang Shao-ching along with NT$3.24 million (about RMB 722,500) as compensation for Lin Dai-an’s move via the free agent (FA) mechanism. This information had been widely rumored and became a hot topic among supporters, and now it is officially confirmed. Chiang Shao-ching replied through his agency Zhan Yi International: "My tasks remain unchanged, and I am preparing myself just the same."

Chiang Shao-ching’s full response is as follows: "Honestly, I was quite surprised to leave this way. I want to thank Fubon and Uni-Lions. What I have to do hasn’t changed; moving forward, I will continue preparing myself and work hard for the next season."

After Fubon Guardians submitted their 25-player protected list, the biggest surprise was indeed that Chiang Shao-ching was left out, which caught him somewhat off guard. During the offseason baseball camp hosted by his agency, he mentioned that he had participated in the Guardians’ autumn training and started pitching simulated games, happily seeing his pitch speed reach 150 km/h. He felt his physical condition was very good and believed that with a full spring training and the start of the next season, he would be ready—never expecting to be wearing a different jersey soon.

Uni-Lions General Manager Su Tai-an stated: "Regarding this FA compensation plan, the Lions finally chose Chiang Shao-ching mainly because we believe his addition will strengthen our pitching staff and that he has the capability to serve as a starting pitcher. Although he has struggled with injuries in recent years, Shao-ching has been diligently rehabbing and is more motivated than anyone to prove himself on the mound. The team expects him to show ambition and repay fans with strong performances. Besides performance considerations, we also believe Shao-ching’s presence will positively impact marketing, ticket sales, and merchandise."

Uni-Lions head coach Lin Yue-ping said in a phone interview this morning that although the Fubon Guardians’ 25-player protected list includes bullpen pitchers and position players, there is a high overlap with the Lions’ roster. "We want to strengthen our pitching, and the biggest help is the starting pitcher Chiang Shao-ching. We have expectations for him; next year will be a rehab year, starting with 10 starts, gradually increasing pitch counts, and eventually becoming a regular starter the following year."

Fubon Guardians team leader Chen Chao-ru expressed that regarding Chiang Shao-ching being selected by the Uni-Lions as compensation, "The Guardians organization feels reluctant but still gives their best wishes and thanks Chiang Shao-ching for his efforts since returning from the U.S. and joining the Guardians for four and a half seasons through the draft." Although he was troubled by injuries during this time, he continued to work hard on rehab without slackening. We wish Shao-ching all the best in health and success with his new team.

Fubon Guardians executive deputy team leader Lin Wei-chu revealed that the team originally planned for him to gradually return in the second half of next year. "However, since pectoral muscle tear surgeries are relatively rare, post-surgery evaluations must be very cautious. If reinjury occurs, it could seriously impact his career." Additionally, with limited spots on the 25-player protected list and the need to include this year’s draft rookies, "making the list was a very difficult decision." Therefore, after considering next year’s and future team strength plans, Chiang Shao-ching was not included. Lin Wei-chu expressed regret over his selection by the Uni-Lions but sincerely wishes him well.