Central News Agency (CNA, reporter Hsieh Ching-wen, Taipei, June 29) In the CPBL draft today, CTBC Brothers selected shortstop Hsu Shu-cheng in the first round. This marks the first time in 36 years that a player from Kinmen has been drafted into the CPBL. Hsu Shu-cheng stated that this is a milestone for Kinmen and he hopes to use it to boost the baseball atmosphere in Kinmen. Hsu Shu-cheng, a 186 cm tall shortstop, graduated from Kao Yuan Vocational High School and is a talented player from Kinmen. He played baseball in Kinmen throughout his elementary and junior high school years. In today's draft, he was selected by the Brothers in the first round, becoming the second player from Kinmen to join the CPBL, following Weng Feng-yu. Hsu Shu-cheng had previously considered pursuing a career overseas. However, he said that whether he starts in the CPBL or plays abroad, he believes both paths can help him improve. After discussing with his family and coaches, he felt that entering the CPBL draft at this stage was the best option. He also hopes to perform well in the CPBL and prove himself. When he heard his name called, Hsu Shu-cheng said he was very happy with the outcome. He admires veteran Chang Chih-hao on the Brothers team, whose on-field performance and attitude are worth learning from. He also knows that the Brothers are a team with a strong offense. He plans to strengthen his physical condition first after entering professional baseball and hopes to reach the first team as soon as possible. Another Kinmen native, pitcher Hung Chia-en, was selected by the Wei Chuan Dragons in the ninth round. Hsu Shu-cheng said this is a milestone for Kinmen and thanked the coaches in Kinmen for their support throughout his journey. He also hopes to bring the baseball atmosphere in Kinmen to a higher level. (Editor: Chen Jen-hua) 1150629 Stand with facts, your every donation is a force to protect press freedom Download the CNA "One-Stop News" APP to get the latest news in real-ti