Yankees Sign Taiwanese Right-Hander Lai Chien-Fan, Scout Cites Pitching Traits as Key

(Central News Agency, New York, June 23, Combined News Service) Major League Baseball's official website announced today that the Yankees have signed Taiwanese right-handed pitcher Lai Chien-Fan. Mario Garza, Director of International Scouting for the club, stated that Lai possesses a heavy fastball, quality breaking balls, and stable control, showing potential to develop within the Yankees' system.

Only 18 years old, Lai Chien-Fan is one of the top Taiwanese prospects in the 2026 international player market. He has thrown fastballs around 153 km/h, and his curveball is his most outstanding breaking pitch, with the potential to reach "above average" levels in the future, complementing his slider.

Last September, Lai represented Chinese Taipei in the U18 Baseball World Cup, appearing in 3 games and pitching 7 innings, striking out 14 batters while allowing only 3 hits and 1 run. Most impressively, he issued only 1 walk during this period, helping the team secure a bronze medal.

In a statement, Yankees Director of International Scouting Mario Garza said, "Signing Chien-Fan represents our renewed commitment to Taiwan and players throughout Asia. As I've gotten to know Chien-Fan further, I see a focused, confident player with excellent talent and a desire to improve."

From a scouting perspective, Garza noted that Lai Chien-Fan has an impressive multi-pitch arsenal, including a heavy fastball and quality breaking balls, along with stable control. These traits are expected to allow him to adapt to the club's development system and realize his potential on the field, becoming a contributing Major League pitcher.

Lai Chien-Fan's signing bonus is expected to reach up to $850,000 USD (approximately NT$26.88 million), making him one of the highest-paid pitchers in his draft class. He is scheduled to report to the Yankees' Dominican Summer League (DSL) base on January 15th. (Compiled by: Chang Ming-hsuan) 1150624

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