Cheng Ji-en, Hung Teng-sheng, Hsieh Kuo-cheng and Yan Hsiao-chang were recognized for their excellence in playing, managing, and serving the sport, according to Taipei City-based Taiwan Baseball Hall of Fame Association.
Taiwan owes its baseball development to the four legends, the association said, adding that all except Hung will be posthumously honored at an official ceremony in August.
Association head Huang Ying-po said Taiwan has a 108-year history of baseball development. “It is important we recognize those who have made significant contributions to the sport in Taiwan.”
The hall of fame is divided into two categories: special contribution and athletic skills. A total of 32 judges formed the selection committee and 30 took part in the voting process.
Hong, Hsieh and Yang were admitted for their special contributions, with Hsieh—considered the father of Taiwan baseball—winning the support of the entire committee. Cheng, aka Iron Coach, was selected for the athletic skills category with 23 votes.
Separately, six baseball players from Taiwan are now attending the Major League Baseball spring training in the U.S. Pitchers Chen Wei-yin and Wang Wei-chung were selected respectively for the 2014 opening day rosters of the Baltimore Orioles and Milwaukee Brewers. (DF-JSM)
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