Taipei: Baseball legend Chang Tai-shan and Chen Han-ming, president of Taiwan-based China Airlines, threw ceremonial first pitches at the Arizona Diamondbacks’ home game Saturday (U.S. time) to promote the carrier’s direct Taipei-Phoenix flights. China Airlines will start nonstop flights between Taoyuan International Airport and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport on December 3, 2025, and the carrier used a special Taiwan-themed event at Chase Field in Phoenix to promote the new route.

According to Focus Taiwan, Chen expressed his honor in participating in the D-backs’ second annual Taiwanese Heritage Celebration, emphasizing the event’s dual significance in celebrating Taiwan’s culture and marking a milestone for China Airlines and the city of Phoenix. The Major League Baseball (MLB) club’s statement highlighted Chang’s achievements, noting his legacy as one of Taiwan’s all-time greats with numerous accolades, including a seven-time Taiwan Series champion and 2003 MVP.

The event, which took place before the Diamondbacks’ 4-3 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies, was organized by Taiwan’s Tourism Administration and sports brand Taroko Sports. The club acknowledged the significance of the event in fostering cultural ties and promoting the upcoming flight route.

China Airlines was the second Taiwanese carrier to announce direct flights to Phoenix on July 25, following Starlux Airlines, which announced it would serve the route on May 21. However, Starlux will not begin flights on the route until January 15.