Taiwanese Pitcher Hsu Jo-hsi Signs Three-Year Deal with Hawks

Taiwanese pitcher Hsu Jo-hsi has officially signed a three-year contract with the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks, the reigning champions of Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB). General manager Sugahiko Mikasa announced the agreement at a press conference held in Taipei, highlighting that the deal was established through the posting system. While specific financial details were not disclosed, an insider told the Central News Agency that Hsu could potentially earn up to US$15 million annually.

The contract includes a base salary of US$10 million, which comprises a signing bonus of US$1 million and a minimum annual salary of US$3 million. Additionally, Hsu could qualify for performance-based bonuses amounting to another US$5 million. The Hawks will also pay a US$2 million posting fee to Hsu’s former team, the Wei Chuan Dragons, in the Chinese Professional Baseball League (CPBL).

Hsu’s transition marks the second consecutive year a Taiwanese pitcher has moved directly from the CPBL to the NPB. The 25-year-old right-hander gained attention in high school, recording speeds of up to 153 kph. He was selected as the sixth overall pick in the 2019 draft by the Wei Chuan Dragons. Hsu made a remarkable professional debut in March 2021, striking out 11 batters in just 3.2 innings. Last season, he completed 114 innings over 19 starts, achieving a remarkable 2.05 ERA, the best among Taiwanese players.

Impressive Career and Future Goals

After declaring international free agency in late October, Hsu attracted interest from multiple teams in both the NPB and Major League Baseball. He will don the No. 18 jersey, a number that symbolizes top performance in Japanese baseball culture. At the press conference, Hsu expressed his admiration for the Hawks’ facilities, stating, “No matter what type of training you require, they provide immediate and accurate support.”

Officials from the Hawks characterized Hsu’s signing as “a very good Christmas gift,” expressing confidence in their ability to help him realize his full potential. Kenji Johjima, the Hawks chief baseball officer, indicated that Hsu would be allowed ample time to adapt to his new environment, ensuring he is not rushed into extensive play.

Hsu, who has faced injury challenges throughout his career, emphasized his determination to secure a place in the starting rotation as quickly as possible. His addition to the Hawks is expected to bolster the team’s pitching lineup significantly as they prepare for the upcoming season.