TAIWAN – The Chicago Cubs have signed Nan-Ying Vocational High School second baseman Chen Ping-Chieh to a professional contract. Chen, who received a $300,000 signing bonus, becomes the fifth prospect from Taiwan signed by the National League franchise.

The 5′11″ and 160 pound infielder is an above average runner whose best tool is his speed reports the Taiwan Baseball website. The 17-year-old, a left-handed swinging hitter with little to no power, will need to improve his strentgh as he matures.

Chen joins Wang Yao-Lin as the second player on the 2009 Taiwan Junior NT to sign with a U.S. major league team.

CUBS TAIWAN PROSPECTS
1. HW Chen
2. YL Wang
3. CH Wen (has been released)
4. HH Tsai (had his contract voided)

Data and Photo courtesy of Taiwan Baseball

Tags: Taiwan