NPB Minor League Features Taiwan Duel: Xu 153 km/h, Chen Shuts Out

Taiwanese baseball fans were electrified today as two compatriots faced off in a minor‑league showdown between the Orix Buffaloes and the Tokyo Yakult Swallows. Xu Xiangsheng, pitching for the Buffaloes, and Chen Mu Heng, newly signed to the Swallows, delivered a duel that showcased the rapid development of Taiwan’s young pitchers in Japan’s professional system.

Xu Xiangsheng took the mound for the Buffaloes’ starting rotation and pitched six innings, demonstrating stamina and command. He surrendered only one run, but his performance was highlighted by a blazing fastball that reached 153 kilometres per hour—setting a new personal record and proving his ability to dominate hitters in high‑pressure situations. Over recent years, Xu has steadily accumulated experience in Japan’s minor‑league circuit, evolving from a raw rookie to a pitcher capable of controlling a game over six innings. His progress reflects the effectiveness of Japan’s pitching development, which emphasizes mechanics, strength training, and mental resilience.

On the other side, Chen Mu Heng started for the Swallows and threw three innings. Although he allowed runs due to defensive lapses, he did not record any earned runs, illustrating his composure under pressure. Chen’s fastball also reached 152 kilometres per hour, matching Xu’s velocity and creating a thrilling speed contest. Known for his athletic build and coordination, Chen had already attracted attention from scouts during his time in the third‑tier league. His performance in the Swallows’ farm game confirms the team’s scouting acumen and signals his potential to move into longer‑stint starts or even the first‑team rotation.

The game underscores a shift in Taiwan’s talent export strategy. Previously, many Taiwanese players pursued careers through national teams or by moving to the United States. In recent years, however, a growing number of high‑school graduates have opted to challenge Japan’s professional ranks directly. The minor‑league environment in Japan offers scientifically grounded training, strict schedule management, and a competitive farm system. Xu Xiangsheng and Chen Mu Heng’s rapid adaptation and their ability to hit 153 and 152 kilometres per hour demonstrate that Taiwan’s grassroots development is now aligned with international standards, producing pitchers who possess the speed and dominance demanded by modern baseball.

For Taiwanese baseball, the strong performances of Xu and Chen in Japan’s minor leagues carry significant implications and serve as a powerful example. When two young Taiwanese pitchers compete abroad with over‑100‑kilometre fastballs, it captures the attention of media and fans in both Taiwan and Japan and provides clear goals for aspiring players back home. Their success proves that, with sufficient skill, the formal pathway to Japan’s top tier is a viable and promising route. As they continue to deliver consistent outings, accumulate innings, and refine their breaking balls and control, the prospect of a “Taiwanese showdown” on Japan’s major‑league stage—or a bright future for Taiwanese pitchers—moves closer to reality. This momentum will continue to elevate the overall competitiveness and international visibility of Taiwanese baseball. (Fact source: Central News Agency)