Chen Yu-Hsun Admits He Never Expected Overseas Opportunity, Aims to Gain Experience in International Youth Baseball Competitions

(CNA reporter Hsieh Ching-wen, New Taipei, 13th) Chen Yu-Hsun, a pitcher from Kaohsiung Municipal Gao-Yuan Industrial High School, withdrew his application for the CPBL draft one day before the draft, potentially opening the door to an overseas career. He admitted that he previously lacked confidence and never imagined the possibility of playing abroad. In the coming period, he will continue to improve his physical conditioning and hopes to gain valuable experience through high-pressure international youth baseball competitions.

Chen originally registered for the CPBL draft this year and was considered a first-round prospect by multiple teams. However, he officially withdrew his application the day before the draft. Chen has received an offer from a Major League Baseball team in the American League, but since he has not yet been placed on the official international player registration list, the earliest he can formally sign a contract is next year.

Chen was also selected for Taiwan's training squad for the Asian Junior Baseball Championship this year. In an interview with CNA, he revealed that he previously lacked confidence, but his strong performance at the Jade Mountain Cup youth baseball tournament gradually boosted his self-assurance. When entering the CPBL draft, he expected to be selected in the second or third round and never anticipated an overseas opportunity. Upon receiving the overseas offer, he had little time to consider, and after discussing with his agency and family, decided to withdraw his draft application.

Having competed in the Asian Cadet Baseball Championship during junior high school, Chen recalls international tournaments as having large audiences and providing valuable experience in handling pressure. Although he has already received an offer from an MLB organization, due to regulations requiring him to wait until next year, Chen stated he will continue following his training regimen, aiming to gain weight and build muscle to improve his physical strength, hoping to successfully transition overseas. (Edited by Chen Jen-Hua) 1150713