The Uni-President 7-Eleven Lions have made headlines in Taiwan's professional baseball scene after officially signing a record-breaking 10-year contract with 31-year-old outfielder Chen Chieh-hsien. The announcement is particularly momentous as it comes on March 21, 2025, marking a significant commitment from the Lions organization to retain talent that has recently flourished.
Chen Chieh-hsien has become a household name in Taiwan not only for his prowess on the field but also for his remarkable achievement at the World Baseball Classic, where he was honored with the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award last year. This distinction not only solidified his reputation but also attracted attention from international teams eager to recruit his talent.
With a contract valued at NT$200 million (approximately US$6.6 million), Chen's deal is now the most lucrative in the history of the Chinese Professional Baseball League (CPBL). His average monthly salary stands at NT$1.4 million, augmented by potential incentive bonuses that total NT$32 million. The Lions' commitment was extensive, assuring Chen a guaranteed salary of NT$168 million, which speaks to their valuation of his abilities.
The Lions have issued a statement detailing the incentives included in the contract. Some of these incentives will be tied to performance metrics such as batting average and OPS (on-base plus slugging percentage), although specific terms have not been disclosed to the public. This arrangement illustrates the organization’s strategy to motivate Chen to maintain peak performance levels throughout the length of his contract.
Regarding the contract's terms, a significant note is the inclusion of an escape clause that allows Chen the possibility of pursuing opportunities abroad. This clause facilitates Chen Chieh-hsien’s potential for international exposure, should foreign teams express interest. Lions’ team manager, Su Tai-an, shared insights into this clause, stating, “If Chieh-hsien has an overseas opportunity, foreign teams can negotiate with the Lions about an overseas contract.” This flexibility is potentially beneficial for both Chen and the Lions; it keeps Chen's career aspirations alive while enabling the team to retain rights over their asset.
Since joining the Lions, Chen has garnered an impressive following, showcasing not just athleticism but also the kind of marketability that can elevate a team's profile. His popularity transcends the baseball diamond, resonating with fans and creating additional revenue streams for the franchise through merchandise and endorsements.
This strategic signing comes amid a competitive landscape in Taiwan's baseball leagues, where teams are consistently vying for top talent. The Uni-President 7-Eleven Lions have taken a proactive approach in securing their star player, ensuring they stay competitive while also fostering a nurturing environment for talent development.
As the season approaches, Chen's fans and the baseball community will be closely watching how this newly minted contract unfolds. Supporters are likely to hope for consistent performance and continued excellence on and off the field. The importance of having a star player like Chen Chieh-hsien cannot be understated; it brings prestige not only to the team but also to the CPBL overall.
This contract signals a forward-thinking approach by the Lions, one that balances financial commitment with the potential for international exposure. In an era where player mobility is becoming increasingly common, the Lions have crafted a deal that respects Chen's aspirations, while ensuring their own interests are safeguarded.
Overall, the Uni-President 7-Eleven Lions' decision to lock in Chen Chieh-hsien with this historic contract showcases their investment in the future of both the player and the franchise. It sends a clear message within the professional baseball community: the Lions are ready to compete fiercely in the coming seasons.
