Orix Buffaloes infielder Chang Yi-An (18), who was acquired through the developmental draft, held an introductory press conference on the 18th at the club's facilities in Maishima, Osaka. He served as the captain of the Taiwan national team at the 14th U-18 Asian Championship, recording a .444 batting average and 6 RBI across six games. He shared his big dream, saying, 'I want to secure a regular spot in Japan and eventually make it to the Major Leagues.' The right-hander also boasts a maximum pitch speed of 149 km/h. He is full of enthusiasm for the possibility of becoming the club's first two-way player, stating, 'If there is an opportunity, I would also like to practice as a pitcher.'

"I respect Kurebayashi. He is young but has already become a core player." His first goal is to succeed as a short stop. Once his joining was finalized, he watched videos of the same right-handed hitter who hit a team-high 18 Home Runs this season, building an image of himself playing in Japan. He joined the team today and had his first joint practice with the starting short stop he admires. He immediately received a pleasing comment: "You have a big frame!" He seemed inspired, saying, "He is amazing in both hitting and defense. He is still a distant figure to me, but I want to do my best."

Chen, who was two years ahead at Ku-Pao Home Economics and Commercial High School, earned a spot on the active roster in his second year this season and made his first-team debut. He taught the newcomer the right mindset, saying, 'Studying the language is very important. Being able to express your feelings improves your mental state,' and the rookie is already practicing Japanese greetings. Aiming for a 'promotion' like his senior, he stated, 'The sooner, the better. I want to make the active roster within two years.' He is scheduled to participate in team practice for one month. The promising 18-year-old is set to grow significantly in Japan. (Shunta Nambu)

Hsu Chen-Wei (18), a pitcher from Taiwan who joined as a developmental player alongside Chang, also had his eyes sparkling at the prospect of playing in Japan. He is a power right-hander whose weapons are a fastball reaching a maximum of 153 km/h and a splitter. Setting his sights on becoming a starter like Kaima Taira of the Seibu Lions, he performed about five bullpen pitch sessions in October before coming to Japan. He practiced with Chen and others in Maishima, Osaka, during the morning. 'I want to reach the active roster in my first year. I want to become a stable pitcher and eventually go to the Major Leagues,' he said with great enthusiasm.

Chang Yi-An. Born July 16, 2008, in Taiwan. 18 years old. Progressed from Ku-Pao Home Economics and Commercial High School to Kainan University. In the 14th U-18 Asian Championship in September, he appeared in 6 games, recording a .444 batting average and 6 RBI. As a pitcher, his maximum speed is 149 km/h. He utilizes a slider, change-up, and fork. 180 cm, 83 kg. Right-handed pitcher and right-handed batter.

Hsu Chen-Wei. Born August 31, 2008, in Taiwan. 18 years old. Advanced from Hsiufeng High School to Kainan University. In June of this year, he was selected for his home country's New Taipei City representative team. Maximum speed 153 km/h. His pitches include the slider, curveball, and splitter. 183 cm, 77 kg. Right-handed pitcher and right-handed batter.