TAIWAN – The Pittsburgh Pirates have signed Taiwan prep outfielder Chi Ping-Hung to a professional contract. The speedster was signed by Pirates Asia scout Chiang Fu-Chun who was impressed by Chi’s work habits.

The 5′7″ Shiyuan High School product gets to first from the batters box in 3.9 seconds, makes good contact with the bat, and has good range defensively due to his speed. However, the dimunitive prospect has a poor throwing arm.

Chi, who will join current minor leaguer Cheng Chi-Hung in the Pirates’ farm system, signed for less than $100,000 and will begin his pro career in the minor leagues in Australia.

The Pirates also signed 17-year-old 1B/LHP Chi-Wei Hsu. The 5′11″ southpaw was converted to a pitcher two years ago. He reportedly throws in the low 80’s and has a slider and a changeup combo.

Data/Photo courtesy of Taiwan Baseball

Tags: Taiwan