Leveraging his exceptional physical abilities, Lin Li, a player who continues to secure titles in Taiwan's professional baseball league 'CPBL'.In 2022, he shone as the leading hitter, with the most hits, and was crowned the RBI champion. He was also selected as the MVP of the Taiwan Professional Baseball League.What exactly is the fascination with Baseball he wants to convey, and the source of his motivation?

Player Lin, who debuted in 2017, recorded a batting average of .389 in his third year with the team, earning him the title of leading batter.From then on, he won major titles such as the stolen base king, RBI king, and the player with the most hits, and in 2022, he also received the league MVP award.The powerful, fast, and versatile batter, at the age of 27, can be described as the “face of Taiwanese baseball.”However, while attracting attention, he harbored a straightforward feeling of “I love Baseball” in his heart.Growth is possible because of the love and enjoyment of baseball.The future of Taiwanese baseball may well rest on showing children something akin to the pure form of a boy playing baseball.

――While player Lin had a great performance in 2022, unfortunately, he got off to a late start this year due to an injury.Given that your performance last year was exceptionally good, I imagine you must have been filled with frustration. However, do you think there’s something to be gained through this experience?

Although I was injured immediately after the start of this year, I believe that being able to make time to face myself was a positive aspect.It was the first time I had an injury that completely prevented me from participating in the match. Although I wanted to heal quickly, I knew that rushing wouldn’t necessarily speed up the recovery.Before the season opener, I participated in the WBC, so I was able to switch and take a good rest for both my mind and body.Going forward, I intend to work hard to contribute significantly to the team.

――Previously, Head Coach Kenji Furukubo highly praised player Lin in an interview. Conversely, how does player Lin feel about the Japanese baseball style taught by Head Coach Furukubo?

The style of Baseball itself doesn’t seem to have much difference between Japan and Taiwan.On the other hand, the head coach is responsible for devising strategies during the game and leading the team to victory.Since Coach Kogure arrived, we’ve seen an increase in detailed instructions during the game, and numerous instances where his strategies hit the mark.I think such meticulous baseball is wonderful, and I myself am always conscious to understand and execute tactics properly.

――Do you watch professional baseball in Japan?

Of course, I’m watching.I often watch NPB broadcasts before the game.The team’s ability and the players’ level are both high, and there are also many fans.I wonder how one can achieve such high performance and continue to maintain that ability.It’s an existence I want to emulate.

―― As one of the representative players from Taiwan, how do you think one should strive for the further development of Rakuten Monkeys and Taiwanese Baseball?

The Rakuten Monkeys feel that they are able to play baseball in a more favorable environment compared to other teams.Not only in supporting athletes, but also in actively engaging in marketing, it is expected to improve even further in the future.When looking at Taiwan’s professional baseball as a whole, I believe that if there are more superior players, the number of spectators coming to watch will also increase. Therefore, I think it’s crucial to first elevate the level of the whole league.

―― Do you have anything you would like to convey to children who are starting to take interest in Baseball, or to those who dream of becoming professional Baseball players in the future?

Baseball is a team sport with many positions.There are many skills that must be acquired, which can be difficult, but I think it also has interesting aspects.Furthermore, even if only one person plays well, you cannot win the match.What’s important is to perform as a whole team.I would be happy if I could convey the fun and depth of baseball to more people.In addition, for children who aspire to become professional baseball players, it’s important to convey that continuing to hold the feeling of “loving baseball” is crucial.I love baseball, so I continue to play even now.Even if becoming a professional baseball player seems difficult, I believe that engaging with a feeling of “liking” it will lead to the future.

INTERVIEW: Yohsuke Watanabe (IN FOCUS) TEXT: Kodai Wada