Deng Kaiwei politely declines participation in the March Baseball Classic, focusing on preparing for a crucial year in his professional career.

The 6th World Baseball Classic in 2026 is set to begin in March, as countries continue to confirm player commitments and organize training. On the 9th, Deng Kaiwei announced through his agent that he would respectfully refuse the call-up to the Chinese Taipei team for this event.

During the 2023 5th Classic, his home club, the San Francisco Giants, placed limits on his pitching. Deng remained in the U.S. for training until just before the competition when he returned to Taiwan to join the team. In the preliminary round, Chinese Taipei faced Panama in their first game. After Deng came in as a relief pitcher, he struggled with control, throwing several wild pitches; out of seven pitches, only one was a strike, leading to a bases-loaded situation. The following pitcher, Zeng Junyue, was unable to stop the damage, and the team gave up six runs in that inning. His performance, along with the coaching staff’s decisions, sparked considerable discussion among observers.

Deng Kaiwei was originally regarded as a key pitcher for the Chinese Taipei team in this tournament. However, facing a critical year in his career, he ultimately decided to decline participation. He expressed special thanks to CPBL Chairman Tsai Chi-chang, Chinese Taipei head coach Zeng Haoju, and the coaching staff for their invitation, and appreciated the head coach’s understanding, respect, and support regarding his decision.

Below is the full statement released by Deng Kaiwei through his agency:

Regarding the WBC Classic call-up, the following is an explanation from player Deng Kaiwei, forwarded with assistance from his agency:

Hello everyone, I am Deng Kaiwei.

Over this period, I have reflected deeply and had multiple discussions and evaluations with my family and team. After careful consideration, I have made the difficult decision to respectfully decline the invitation to participate in this WBC World Baseball Classic. I understand this choice may provoke diverse opinions and may disappoint fans hoping to see me wear the Chinese Taipei jersey, and I fully empathize with those feelings. Representing Chinese Taipei has always been a meaningful and cherished honor for me, and that has never changed.

In 2024, I made my debut on the Major League stage. That experience brought many challenges and reflections, helping me clearly see areas where I still need to improve and learn. Entering 2025, I have tried different roles and gained practical experience in a more competitive environment. I am now more certain that the most important thing for me at this stage is to thoroughly prepare every step and steadily move toward my next goal.

Therefore, after evaluating my overall condition and future plans, I could only come to this decision. Moving forward, I will continue to dedicate myself to training and preparation, consistently improving to meet future challenges.

I am very grateful to CPBL Chairman Tsai Chi-chang, head coach Zeng Haoju, and the Chinese Taipei coaching staff for their invitation. After making my decision, I immediately communicated my thoughts to Coach Zeng and appreciate his understanding and respect. Even after learning of my choice, he continued to encourage and support me, which means a great deal to me.

Finally, thank you to all the friends who have supported me, cared for me, and stayed up late to watch my games. Your expectations and attention have always been in my heart.

I sincerely wish the Chinese Taipei team success in the upcoming Classic. Every player who steps onto the field is fighting and giving their all for Taiwan, and they deserve full support. I will also be cheering for the Chinese Taipei team alongside everyone.

Deng Kaiwei