Taipei: Taiwanese baseball player Cheng Tsung-che, who was recently designated for assignment by the Pittsburgh Pirates, has been claimed off waivers by the Tampa Bay Rays. This development marks a significant shift for the 24-year-old middle infielder, who is navigating changes both on and off the field, having been designated for assignment shortly after his wedding.

According to Focus Taiwan, the Pirates had designated Cheng along with outfielder Marco Luciano following a three-team trade involving the Rays and Houston Astros, which brought Jake Mangum, Brandon Lowe, and Mason Montgomery to Pittsburgh. Cheng's move to the Rays' 40-man roster is seen as an opportunity for the player, who was ranked as the Pirates' No. 9 prospect in 2024 and is celebrated for his fielding skills at second base and shortstop.

The transition to the Rays could impact Cheng's participation in the upcoming World Baseball Classic in March. While Cheng had previously expressed a desire to represent Team Taiwan, and had secured approval from the Pirates, his availability will now hinge on the Rays' plans for him.

Cheng's journey to the Major Leagues began when he signed with the Pittsburgh Pirates in July 2019, although his debut in the United States was delayed by nearly two years due to the pandemic. In April 2025, Cheng was called up to the Major Leagues after playing just 11 games at the Triple-A level, following injuries to key players on the Pirates' roster. Despite making his MLB debut on April 9, Cheng struggled initially, going hitless in seven at-bats over three games before being optioned back to Triple-A.

Last year, in 107 games at the Triple-A level, Cheng recorded a batting average of .207 with a .307 on-base percentage, one home run, and 36 RBIs. He also struck out 99 times and successfully stole 18 bases at a 72 percent success rate. As Cheng joins the Rays, there is anticipation around how he will integrate into the team and whether he will have the chance to showcase his skills in the upcoming season.