Taipei, Taiwan – Rakuten Monkeys manager Tseng Hao-chu has revealed the team’s initial plans for newly acquired foreign slugger Wick, saying the power hitter will likely share designated hitter (DH) duties with veteran Lin Hung-yu while also seeing time in the outfield.
Wick made his first-team debut as the starting left fielder, but after struggling with a throwing error, he has started the last two games as the designated hitter.
Meanwhile, Lin Hung-yu, who has been the team’s regular DH, has not been included in the starting lineup for two consecutive games.
Speaking about the team’s lineup, Tseng said the primary focus is on maximizing the club’s offensive strength.
“Our priority is building the best lineup for the team. What we need most is Wick’s bat,” Tseng explained.
According to the manager, Wick and Lin Hung-yu are expected to rotate at the DH position, allowing both players regular rest. When Lin has a favorable matchup or is in good form, Wick could move back to left field.
Lin Hung-yu has not appeared as a catcher since 2024, when he caught only four games. Despite that, he continues to practice as a catcher before every game to remain prepared.
However, Tseng said the club has no immediate plans to use him behind the plate.
“Of course, he continues his daily catching drills and stays prepared, but considering the physical demands that catching places on his body, we won’t easily ask him to return to that role in actual games,” Tseng said.
The Rakuten Monkeys hope the rotation strategy will keep both veteran Lin and the newly signed Wick fresh throughout the season while maximizing the team’s offensive production.
