TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Pittsburgh Pirates have promoted Taiwanese infielder Cheng Tsung-che (鄭宗哲) to their major league roster, the team announced Monday (April 7) U.S. time, making him the 18th player from Taiwan to reach baseball's highest level. The versatile 173 cm (approximately 5-foot-8) native of Pingtung, a county in southern Taiwan known for producing baseball talent, has impressed scouts with his exceptional athletic prowess and defensive versatility across multiple infield positions.
MLB's official scouting report particularly emphasizes Cheng's exceptional speed on the basepaths and his already major league-caliber defensive abilities at shortstop, traditionally one of baseball's most demanding positions. Currently in his fifth season of professional baseball in the United States, Cheng had been ranked as the 17th-best prospect in the Pirates' minor league system before his call-up. His promotion to the major leagues came sooner than expected, accelerated by a series of injuries that have depleted the Pirates' infield depth in recent weeks.
Alex Stumpf, a reporter covering the Pirates for MLB's official website, provided analysis suggesting that Cheng's unexpected promotion was driven by a combination of his standout performances during spring training and the team's urgent need for infield reinforcements due to multiple injuries. Stumpf noted that while the promotion might be earlier than the organization had initially planned, he believes Cheng still possesses significant developmental upside and can immediately contribute in a utility role with his defensive flexibility.
The scouting report further characterizes Cheng's offensive approach as ideally suited for a leadoff role in the batting order, highlighting his left-handed hitting mechanics that produce line drives to both the left and right fields — a valuable skill that enhances his ability to reach base consistently. The newly promoted infielder will join the Pirates as they begin a three-game home series against division rival St. Louis Cardinals on Tuesday at PNC Park. Team officials have indicated that Cheng will initially be available off the bench, prepared to enter the game in various situations as needed.