TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Washington Nationals claimed Taiwanese infielder Cheng Tsung-che (鄭宗哲) off waivers Thursday (Jan. 29), making them his fourth Major League Baseball team this month in an unusually turbulent stretch for the utility player. The Nationals added Cheng to their 40-man roster after he cycled through the Pittsburgh Pirates, the Tampa Bay Rays and the New York Mets in rapid succession during January's pre-spring training roster adjustments.
The Pirates designated Cheng for assignment in early January during roster shuffles. The Rays claimed him on Jan. 12 but placed him back on waivers four days later. The Mets then claimed him but waived him again due to infield depth. The Nationals acquired Cheng after designating left-hander Konnor Pilkington for assignment, though Cheng still faces the risk of another transfer before spring training begins.
Cheng's strong defensive range and speed have attracted multiple teams, but his batting struggles have resulted in repeated waivers. He has expressed a strong desire to represent Taiwan in the World Baseball Classic (WBC), where he is expected to serve as a key infielder for the national team. His recent team changes, however, could affect his participation in the tournament. ◼