Imagine pouring your heart and soul into chasing a Major League Baseball dream, only to face a whirlwind of team changes and uncertainty. That's the reality Cheng Tsung-che, the sole Taiwanese position player to grace an MLB game in 2025, is currently navigating. He's been waived by the Tampa Bay Rays, leaving his future hanging in the balance.
Here's the breakdown: Focus Taiwan reports that Cheng, previously claimed off waivers from the Pittsburgh Pirates just a week prior, was designated for assignment by the Rays. This move, along with the waiving of left-handed pitcher Osvaldo Bido, was made to clear space on the Rays' 40-man roster for two new additions: left-hander Ken Waldichuk and utility infielder Brett Wisely, acquired in a trade with the Atlanta Braves. In return, the Braves will receive either a player to be named later or cash considerations. It's a business, plain and simple, but it's still a tough blow for Cheng.
But here's where it gets controversial... Was it really about performance, or something else? The Rays cited Wisely's versatility as a key factor. Wisely, despite a lower .185 batting average in the majors in 2025, has experience at almost every infield position and even some time in the outfield. This flexibility arguably provides the Rays with more options than Cheng, who is primarily a middle infielder. An MLB report highlighted that Wisely's "ability to play all around the infield could come in handy," especially with spring training just around the corner. It suggests the Rays prioritized immediate adaptability over Cheng's potential.
So, what does this mean for Cheng? The good news is that he still has a chance. If he clears waivers, meaning no other team claims him, he could remain within the Rays' organization. Alternatively, he could find a spot in the minor league system of another team. Think of it as a second chance to prove his worth.
Let's rewind a bit to understand Cheng's journey. After injuries plagued the Pirates' infield, he was called up from Triple-A in early April 2025, having played 11 games there. He had a brief stint of three games in the majors, going hitless in seven at-bats, before being sent back to Triple-A for the remainder of the season. In 107 Triple-A games last year, Cheng posted a .207 batting average with a .307 on-base percentage, one home run, and 36 RBIs. Notably, his batting average declined from .278 in 2023 to .225 in 2024 as he progressed through the minor league levels. This downward trend likely played a role in the Rays' decision.
And this is the part most people miss... While batting average is important, it's not the only metric that matters. Consider his on-base percentage. While his batting average dipped, his OBP remained relatively consistent, suggesting he still possessed the ability to get on base, a valuable asset in modern baseball. Was this overlooked?
Cheng's situation highlights the brutal realities of professional baseball. The competition is fierce, and teams are constantly evaluating talent and making tough decisions. What do you think? Was the Rays' decision justified, prioritizing versatility over Cheng's potential? Or should they have given him more time to develop within their system? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
