TSG Hawks Players Face Fines and Suspensions for Gambling

Three players from the TSG Hawks, a professional baseball team in Taiwan, have been fined and suspended following an investigation into their involvement in online gambling. The Chinese Professional Baseball League (CPBL) confirmed that pitchers Guo Yu-yan, Chen Guan-hao, and Wu Yu-cheng participated in online Texas hold ’em poker games, prompting disciplinary action.

The CPBL’s investigation revealed that Guo had been involved in the games from January to June 2023, facilitated by an agent from Taiyu Sports Agency. Guo received the most severe penalty, facing a suspension of 10 games and a fine of NT$100,000. Both Chen and Wu were suspended for five games and fined NT$50,000 each, as they had only briefly participated after Guo introduced them to the games in March.

In a statement, the CPBL emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating, “Engaging in online gambling is not a sanctioned activity for players, which has tarnished Taiwan’s professional baseball.” The league urged all clubs to enhance internal monitoring and ensure players understand the code of conduct.

The investigation into the TSG Hawks comes amid heightened scrutiny of gambling practices within Taiwanese baseball. In August 2022, four players from the Wei Chuan Dragons and Fubon Guardians faced similar penalties after being photographed playing poker in gaming lounges.

On the matter of the current investigation, CPBL Secretary-General Yang Ching-lung confirmed that he had received tip-offs regarding an agent enticing players into online gambling. This has raised concerns about the integrity of the sport, leading to the immediate launch of a probe into these allegations.

In response to the ongoing situation, Taiyu Sports Agency issued a statement expressing their commitment to cooperating fully with the CPBL, clubs, and players’ union while denying any involvement in the gambling activities. Allegations against agent Cheng Ming-yang included introducing players to the online poker games and facilitating loans for gambling debts, claims he has publicly rejected.

The CPBL’s actions reflect a broader effort to maintain the integrity of baseball in Taiwan and to reinforce the importance of ethical behavior among players. As investigations continue, the league remains vigilant in its commitment to uphold the values of professional sports and protect its reputation.