(Taipei, June 16, CNA reporter Hsieh Ching-wen) Houston Astros pitcher Deng Kai-Wei made his starting appearance today against the Detroit Tigers, creating MLB history with the first-ever pitcher-batter duel between two Taiwan-born players. Deng faced Li Hao-Yu twice: striking him out in the 2nd inning and giving up a hit in the 4th. Deng was pulled after 3.1 innings, allowing 5 earned runs on 6 hits including 3 home runs, while recording a career-high 9 strikeouts. He remained in line for the loss as his team trailed 3-5 upon his exit.

In today's MLB matchup between the Astros and Tigers, Deng started strong but struggled with control early. In the 1st inning, he allowed no hits but issued 4 walks, surrendering 1 run. All 3 outs were recorded via strikeout.

In the 2nd inning, Deng struck out the first two batters before giving up a solo home run to Kevin McGonigle. With one ball on Gleyber Torres, the Tigers' batter exited due to injury, bringing in Li Hao-Yu as a pinch hitter. Deng struck Li out with a sweeper pitch, marking the historic first Taiwan-born pitcher vs. batter duel in MLB.

In the 3rd inning, with two outs, Deng allowed a 2-run homer to Colt Keith and a solo shot to Spencer Torkelson, but recovered to strike out the final batter.

In the 4th inning, Deng recorded the first out via strikeout, then allowed a single to McGonigle. Facing Li Hao-Yu again, Li connected on the first pitch and lined a hit to right field, prompting Deng's immediate removal from the game.

Deng threw 81 pitches over 3.1 innings, allowing 5 earned runs on 6 hits (3 HRs), while striking out 9—his career high. He exited with his team trailing 3-5, remaining in line for the loss. (Edited by Chang Ya-ching) 1150616

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  • Source: CNA (Central News Agency)
  • Category: Event