BASEBALL / Taiwan MLB prospect Cheng Tsung-che claimed by Rays off waivers

Taipei, Jan. 9 (CNA) Taiwanese baseball player Cheng Tsung-che (鄭宗哲), who was designated for assignment by the Pittsburgh Pirates in mid-December, has been claimed off waivers by the Tampa Bay Rays.

The Rays' decision to add Cheng to their 40-man roster is a positive turn for the 24-year-old middle infielder, who had been designated for assignment just one week after getting married.

Pittsburgh designated Cheng and outfielder Marco Luciano for assignment following a three-team trade with the Rays and Houston Astros that brought in Jake Mangum, Brandon Lowe, and Mason Montgomery.

The move could affect Cheng's participation in the upcoming World Baseball Classic in March. Cheng has previously expressed willingness to play for Team Taiwan and had received approval from the Pirates, but his availability will now depend on the Rays' plans.

Ranked as the Pirates' No. 9 prospect in 2024, Cheng is known for his fielding prowess at second base and shortstop. After signing with Pittsburgh in July 2019, his U.S. debut was delayed nearly two years due to the pandemic.

Cheng was called up to the Major Leagues in early April 2025 after just 11 games at the Triple-A level, following injuries to second baseman Nick Gonzales and utility player Jared Triolo.

He made his MLB debut on April 9 but went hitless in seven at-bats across three games before being optioned back to Triple-A for the remainder of the season.

In 107 Triple-A games last year, Cheng batted .207 with a .307 on-base percentage, recording one home run and 36 RBIs. He struck out 99 times and stole 18 bases at a 72 percent success rate.