Despite the pitching restrictions, he still wants to prove himself in the Top 12 championship game
The World Baseball Top 12 Championship took place on November 24, 2024, at the Tokyo Dome. Taiwan’s baseball team achieved a historic victory by defeating Japan. Taiwanese reliever Zhang Yi played a key role, pitching effectively and preventing any runs during critical innings.
Zhang Yi, who has performed strongly in previous games, expressed his determination to contribute to the team, despite having a ball limit set by his home team. In the championship match, he pitched for three innings, allowed only two hits, struck out three batters, and did not give up any runs. After the game, he became emotional, saying, “This is the first championship I have won in my life.”
Zhang Yi has faced challenges in Japan before, having been released by the Nippon Seibu Lions. He felt an intense desire to prove himself, which led him to request to pitch again even when not required. His tears of joy reflected a mix of emotions, as he expressed a long-standing desire to succeed in Japan.
How does Zhang Yi believe this victory will impact the future of baseball in Taiwan?
Interview with Zhang Yi: A Historic Victory for Taiwan in the World Baseball Top 12 Championship
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In a thrilling match held on November 24, 2024, at the Tokyo Dome, Taiwan’s baseball team made history by defeating host nation Japan in the World Baseball Top 12 Championship. Key to this monumental victory was Taiwanese reliever Zhang Yi, whose outstanding pitching performance sealed the win for his team. We caught up with Zhang Yi after the game to discuss his emotions, challenges, and the significance of this championship.
Interviewer: Zhang Yi, congratulations on your historic victory! How does it feel to win your first championship?
Zhang Yi: Thank you! It’s overwhelming. This is the first championship I have won in my life, and I can’t express how much it means to me. I’ve dreamed of this moment for so long, especially considering the challenges I’ve faced in my career.
Interviewer: You had an incredible performance on the mound today, pitching three innings with no runs allowed and three strikeouts. What was your mindset during the crucial innings?
Zhang Yi: I knew the stakes were high. My focus was to stay calm and execute my pitches. Despite having a ball limit set by my home team, I was determined to contribute as much as possible. I felt a strong sense of duty to my teammates and our supporters back home.
Interviewer: There’s a poignant backstory to your journey in Japan, particularly after your release from the Nippon Seibu Lions. How did that experience shape your performance in this tournament?
Zhang Yi: Being released was tough. It made me question my abilities, but it also fueled my desire to prove myself. I wanted to show that I belong here. I even asked to pitch again when I wasn’t required because I wanted to make an impact. Every moment mattered, and I think that mindset pushed me to elevate my game.
Interviewer: Your emotional reaction after the game was powerful. Can you share what was going through your mind at that moment?
Zhang Yi: It was a mix of joy and relief. All the hard work, the sacrifices, and the struggles came flooding back as I realized we had done it. I was overwhelmed by the support from our fans, who made it feel like a home game despite being in Japan. This win signifies so much for Taiwan, and I felt like I was carrying the hopes of our entire baseball community.
Interviewer: Reflecting on your previous tournaments, particularly in 2019 against South Korea, how do you see this victory in relation to your career?
Zhang Yi: Winning against Japan is monumental, not just for me but for all of Taiwan. It adds to our three Top 12 tournament victories and reinforces our reputation in international baseball. That recognition from 2019 gave me the confidence to push through obstacles, and now this championship feels like the culmination of those experiences.
Interviewer: What does this victory mean for Taiwanese baseball, and how do you see the future for the team?
Zhang Yi: This victory represents our potential and determination in the international arena. It proves that we can compete at the highest levels. I hope it inspires the next generation of players in Taiwan to pursue their dreams relentlessly. The future looks bright, and I believe we’ll continue to make our mark in baseball.
Interviewer: Thank you, Zhang Yi, for sharing your thoughts with us. Congratulations once again on your incredible win!
Zhang Yi: Thank you! I appreciate the support from everyone. Let’s keep dreaming big!
In the 2019 Top 12 tournament, Zhang Yi gained recognition for his performance against South Korea, winning multiple awards. This win against Japan marks a significant achievement for him, contributing to Taiwan’s three Top 12 tournament victories and maintaining an impressive defensive record.
The Taiwanese fans provided strong support during the game, making it feel like a home match, despite the location being Japan. Zhang Yi’s victory and emotional response highlight the significance of this achievement for both him and the Taiwanese baseball community.