Most minor league signings don’t generate much of a buzz during the hot stove season. They’re generally cheap, low risk signings made to ensure depth.
Yet, the Los Angeles Dodgers are close to signing a player with an interesting background. Taiwanese pitcher Chin-hui Tsao was a four-time top 100 prospect during his years with the Rockies, but was unimpressive in 88 1/3 career innings. He hasn’t pitched in America since 2008, when he spent the year with the AAA Omaha Royals (now the Storm Chasers).
So what’s so interesting about Tsao? He hasn’t pitched professionally since 2009, when he spent the year with the Brother Elephants in Taiwan. Then, he was banned by the Chinese Professional Baseball League over allegations of game-fixing. Bill Shaikin of the LA Times has some more details.
The CPBL banned him after an investigation into game-fixing, according to reports, but he never was charged with any offenses. The Dodgers are believed to have gotten clearance from the MLB commissioner’s office to pursue Tsao.
In November, with Tsao reportedly hitting 95 mph as he launched a comeback, he signed with the Adelaide Bite of the Australian Baseball League. He traveled to Australia but, under pressure from the CPBL, the ABL refused to allow him to play.
This probably won’t end up being a big deal. Tsao is a long shot to have much of an impact on the Dodgers this season. But man, imagine the hot takes if he *does* earn a major league call-up. The Pete Rose honks will be out in full force.
[LA Times]
