In a historic victory for Taiwanese baseball, the national team clinched its first-ever World Baseball Tournament championship this year. Dominating pitcher Zhang Yi played a pivotal role in the championship game against Japan, shutting out the formidable opponent for three innings and securing the win. With five victories under his belt and a perfect 0.00 ERA across the tournament, Zhang Yi cemented his status as a true champion.
Overwhelmed with emotion, Zhang Yi took to his personal Instagram account to express his gratitude and share his thoughts on this momentous achievement.”This 2024 World Baseball Top 12 tournament, we will win the championship for Taiwan,” he wrote. “it is the moast glorious moment in my career and means a lot to me.”
Zhang Yi, known affectionately as the “Winning Thief,” went on to reflect on the team’s journey, highlighting the challenges they overcame and the unwavering spirit that propelled them to victory. “We have experienced recruitment difficulties before, survived the rematch, survived all the negative words, and many questions and criticisms,” he shared. “We have become more united, cohesive, and centripetal.”
“Each of us is not for ‘individuals’, but for ‘teams’,” he emphasized. “The Taiwan team allows us to regain our desire for baseball and enjoy the game. This might potentially be the most accomplished, critically important and highest realm for every player.”
In a heartfelt message to baseball fans, Zhang Yi declared, “Those of us who survive these noises and processes are already ‘sufficiently’ successful. And we also use our most sincere and hard work to let the world see Taiwan.It proves that we ‘Taiwan’ have done it.”
Expressing his gratitude to the coaching staff, the Taiwan Baseball Association, and his fellow players, Zhang Yi concluded his post with a message of hope and determination. “Players always need to try, challenge, and innovate. Keep the good going.”
Zhang Yi’s emotional post resonated with fans across Taiwan, solidifying his place as a national hero and inspiring a new generation of baseball enthusiasts.
Taiwanese baseball star Zhang Yi, known for his clutch pitching, recently penned a heartfelt message to fans after a triumphant victory in the World Baseball Classic.The message, shared on social media, offered a glimpse into the mental fortitude and gratitude that fuel his success.
Reflecting on his journey, Zhang Yi acknowledged the certain ups and downs of a competitive career. “Imperfection is not failure,” he wrote. ”This is just a process of letting myself know better how to survive in this surroundings.” He emphasized the importance of self-belief and resilience, urging fans to “Don’t let anyone define you” and to “not blame yesterday’s helplessness.”
The pitcher expressed deep gratitude for the unwavering support he receives. “there are many warm and kind people around me,” he shared, mentioning his family, agency, coaches, and devoted fans. “because of you,I/we are who we are now.”
Zhang Yi concluded his message with a powerful call to action, encouraging fans to “Start over,” enjoy the game, and “control the game with the original intention.” He vowed to continue working hard, viewing his performance as a “best answer” to the unwavering support he receives.
“Thank you for accompanying me until now,” he wrote. “And I believe that everyone will, in their own time and space context, has its own story.”
He ended with a hopeful message, inviting fans to continue creating a shared story of love for baseball. “Please continue to give me your advice in the future,” he added.
Zhang Yi’s message resonated deeply with fans, highlighting the importance of perseverance, gratitude, and the power of community in achieving success.
The world of professional basketball is abuzz with rumors as the Golden State Warriors, despite their recent struggles, are reportedly on the hunt for a star player to join forces with the legendary Stephen Curry. This news comes as the Warriors have experienced a dip in their performance, leading to speculation about potential roster changes.
“Brother No.1” Zhou tiancheng and “Lin Yangpei” are two names that have been linked to the Warriors in recent whispers. While details remain scarce, the prospect of these talented players joining the Warriors’ lineup has ignited excitement among fans.
The Warriors’ recent performance has raised eyebrows, with the team experiencing more losses than wins. This unexpected downturn has fueled speculation that the team is actively seeking reinforcements to bolster their roster and reclaim their championship aspirations.
The Warriors’ front office has a history of making bold moves,and the pursuit of a star player to complement Curry’s extraordinary skills wouldn’t be out of character. The addition of a top-tier talent coudl perhaps revitalize the team and propel them back into contention for a title.
As the NBA season progresses, all eyes will be on the Warriors and their potential roster moves. The possibility of Zhou Tiancheng and Lin Yangpei joining the team adds an intriguing layer to the unfolding narrative.
## “More Than Just Baseball:” An Interview with Taiwan’s Champion Pitcher, Zhang Yi
**World Today News:** Zhang Yi, congratulations on yoru historic World baseball Tournament victory! Taiwan truly made history. How are you feeling?
**Zhang Yi:** (Smiles) Surreal, to be honest. It’s always been a dream to wear the Taiwan jersey and compete on this stage. To win the championship, it’s beyond words. It’s an honor to represent my country and bring this joy to our fans.
**WTN:** Your performance was nothing short of phenomenal, especially your shutdown innings against Japan in the final. What was going through your mind during those crucial moments?
**ZY:** Honestly,[pause] I just wanted to give everything I had for my team. My focus was on each pitch, one at a time. Trusting my teammates behind me, knowing we were all fighting for the same goal. That mental strength, the belief in each other, that’s what carried us through.
**WTN:** You’ve spoken about the team’s journey being “more than just baseball.” Can you elaborate on that?
**ZY:** Sure. We faced a lot of challenges, even doubts from the outside.There were tough moments during training, tough games… but we learned to lean on each other, push each other, grow stronger through adversity. The bond we formed wasn’t just about winning games, it was about believing in each other as individuals and as a team.
**WTN:** Your emotional post on Instagram resonated deeply with fans.What message do you hope to convey through your story?
**ZY:** I want to emphasize that success isn’t always about perfection. There will be setbacks, doubts, and criticism along the way. What matters is how you respond to those challenges.
I want young aspiring athletes to know that it’s okay to stumble, to feel vulnerable. It’s about learning from those experiences,pushing forward,and never giving up on your dreams.
**(WTN):** Your nickname “Winning Thief” is a testament to your clutch performances. How does that nickname make you feel?
**(ZY):** [laughs] I guess it suits me pretty well! It’s a reminder that I thrive under pressure, that I want to be the one to deliver in those critical moments. It’s an honor to have that kind of trust from my team and our supporters.
**(WTN):** What are your hopes for the future of Taiwanese baseball?
**(ZY):** This victory is just the beginning. we showed the world what Taiwanese baseball is capable of. I hope this inspires young talent, attracts more attention to our league, and creates more opportunities for future generations. We’re just getting started!
