TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The San Francisco Giants closed a US$500,000 (NT$16.36 million) deal with Taiwanese pitcher Yang Nien-hsi (陽念希) on Wednesday.
The contract consists of a US$450,000 signing bonus and $50,000 in scholarship funds, per CNA.
Yang, a Taoyuan native, was chosen for his throwing prowess, as demonstrated by his 150 kph pitches. The 18-year-old said he had always dreamed of playing overseas and chose to hone his skills at the university level upon graduating high school.
Yang joked that he always believed he was better as a hitter. Though he is pursuing a career as a pitcher, Yang said he has not entirely given up on batting.
He thanked the Giants organization for recognizing his skills, the coaches who nurtured him, and his family for their unwavering support.
Giants Pacific Rim Area scout Evan Hsueh (薛奕煌) said he first saw Yang pitch during a baseball tournament in his third year of junior high. Hsueh was immediately impressed by his physique, coordination, and the power of his pitches.
The Giants have already begun a training regimen for Yang to prepare for a smooth transition to the MLB.