Taipei: Chen Chieh-hsien, Team Taiwan's captain at the 2024 WBSC Premier12, has emerged as a leading figure in local advertisements since the team secured a historic championship last November. Chen believes this visibility can inspire domestic baseball players to aim for personal and professional excellence.

According to Focus Taiwan, Chen shared his thoughts at a public event in Taipei, expressing hope that younger athletes would see the potential for increased earnings through hard work and maintaining a positive image. The captain emphasized the influence baseball players can wield in the business realm, highlighting a shared aspiration among his teammates to set a standard for the sport.

Recognized as the MVP of the WBSC flagship tournament, Chen is celebrated as a fresh face in Taiwan's Chinese Professional Baseball League (CPBL). His endorsements have spanned various products, including shampoo, scooters, and water heaters. His presence has also extended into the fashion world, with features in Taiwan's prominent magazines such as Vogue, GQ, and a cover appearance on ELLE's January special edition.

The outfielder's rising profile has sparked conversations about potential international opportunities. Chen expressed openness to new ventures, acknowledging the brevity of a professional athlete's career and underscoring his intent to enhance his value. The Uni-President 7-Eleven Lions, his current team, have initiated early contract discussions to retain him, though Chen remains open to exploring free agency to assess his worth in the market.

Chen affirmed the natural desire among players to ascertain their value, noting that recognition of their skills can lead to financial improvement and family support. This drive, he stated, is a fundamental reason for their dedication to the sport.