Phoenix: The dual talents of Taiwanese pitcher Zhuang Chen Zhong-ao have captured attention both on and off the baseball field. Known for his powerful 155-kilometer-per-hour (96.3-mph) fastball, the 25-year-old, who plays for the Athletics' Triple-A affiliate, has also gained recognition for his artistic skills, a passion he first nurtured with his father.
According to Focus Taiwan, Zhuang Chen's interest in art, particularly drawing, began long before his baseball career. The Hualien native reminisced about his father's influence, a plumber and electrician who often sketched for work and leisure. Despite his father's traditional views, which might not align with his artistic pursuits, Zhuang Chen has developed a unique bond with painting, which he now does digitally on his iPad.
Zhuang Chen's artistic flair garnered public attention during the World Baseball Classic (WBC) qualifiers in 2025, where his performances on the mound were paralleled by his social media posts featuring his art. His work made waves again in the 2026 WBC Pool C event in Japan, spotlighted by a local newspaper that printed his depiction of a teammate in a relaxed setting.
Drawing, for Zhuang Chen, is more than a pastime. It's a therapeutic escape that complements his rigorous training schedule. After joining the Athletics in 2021 and undergoing elbow surgery in 2023, he found solace in art during his rehabilitation period. This creative outlet allowed him to document his experiences throughout the WBC, creating pieces that captured significant moments like his teammate's triumphant play despite injury.
Zhuang Chen's baseball career is on an upward trajectory. Having completed a full season with a respectable 4.08 ERA and 145 strikeouts, he was added to the Athletics' 40-man roster, signaling the team's confidence in his potential. Following an impressive performance against the Czech Republic in the 2026 WBC, he was promoted to the Las Vegas Aviators, bringing him closer to his dream of playing in the major leagues.
Even as he prepares for "The Show," Zhuang Chen remains hesitant about sharing his art with the person who inspired it all-his father. Yet, his father's influence remains a comforting presence, reminding him of his roots and keeping him grounded both in his sport and his art.