Tsung-Che Cheng – Pittsburgh Pirates Biography, Contract, Net Worth Information

Tsung-Che Cheng has quickly become a bright spot for the Pittsburgh Pirates, making his MLB debut just last month on April 9, 2025.

This Taiwanese infielder, born July 26, 2001 in Pingtung County, shot up through the minors after signing as an international free agent in 2019 for $300,000.

Now that he’s signed his first major league contract with the Pirates, Cheng earns $760,000 for the 2025 season. That puts him right at the start of what could turn into a pretty lucrative MLB career.

He stands at 5’8″ and weighs 180 pounds. Cheng bats lefty and has already played at shortstop, second, and third base.

The COVID-19 pandemic delayed his pro debut until 2021, but Cheng wasted no time making an impression in the minors.

His mix of defensive flexibility, a developing bat, and sharp baseball instincts has made him one of the most interesting young infielders to watch this season.

Early Life and Education

Tsung-Che Cheng grew up in Pingtung County, Taiwan. His early experiences there shaped both his athletic skills and his approach to school.

Those years gave him the groundwork he’d need for later success on the baseball diamond.

Childhood and Background

Cheng was born July 26, 2001, in Pingtung County, Taiwan. He fell in love with baseball early, in a region famous for turning out talented players.

His family supported him, encouraging both his sports and academic interests from the start.

The strong baseball culture in Pingtung County played a big part in his development. Local youth leagues gave him a chance to sharpen his skills against other young talent.

People noticed his natural athleticism during those early years. Cheng’s quick reflexes and coordination would later help him stand out as an infielder.

Academic Achievements

Cheng attended Pu-Men High School and managed to juggle his studies with a growing baseball career.

The school’s athletic program helped him develop his game, but he kept his academics in focus too.

Cheng took a disciplined approach to schoolwork, showing the same work ethic he had on the field. Teachers often pointed out his knack for balancing the demands of being a student-athlete.

Scouts noticed his academic performance. They valued his intelligence and ability to learn quickly—skills that would help him handle the challenges of pro baseball.

Influence of National Taiwan University

Cheng decided to go pro right out of high school, but National Taiwan University’s baseball program still left a mark on his development.

The university’s athletic reputation set a standard for high-level performance.

Cheng attended several training camps and showcases at National Taiwan University. Coaches there introduced him to advanced training and tougher competition.

He absorbed the university’s focus on balancing academics and athletics. That mindset helped him later as he moved into international baseball and eventually signed with the Pittsburgh Pirates in July 2019.

Career Journey and Accomplishments

Tsung-Che Cheng’s road to Major League Baseball is a real international success story. He’s gone from promising young talent to pro athlete with the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Initial Career Steps

Cheng kicked off his pro baseball career when he signed with the Pirates as an international free agent in 2019. The Pirates showed their faith with a $380,000 signing bonus.

He started his minor league journey in 2021 with the Florida Complex League Pirates. That season, Cheng finished first in OBP (on-base percentage) among his teammates.

He also tied for fourth in RBI and ranked third in walks, showing a mature approach at the plate.

At 5’8″ and 180 pounds, Cheng proves that skill and dedication can outshine size in baseball.

Key Roles and Contributions

Cheng’s versatility has been a huge asset. He’s played shortstop, second base, and third base, giving his team more options on defense.

His left-handed swing and right-handed throw make him valuable for lineup construction. Managers can get creative with him, especially when facing different pitchers.

Cheng’s hard work paid off in 2025 when he debuted in the MLB with the Pirates. He got jersey number 71 and signed a one-year, $760,000 contract.

His journey really shows how international scouting can find and nurture talent from anywhere.

Key Performances and Recognition

Cheng moved up through the Pirates’ minor league system by adapting and excelling at every level. Consistent performances made him one of the team’s top prospects.

Scouts and coaches have praised his defensive skills, especially his range and quick hands at shortstop.

At the plate, he stands out for his discipline and ability to get on base.

Cheng’s story resonates because he represents Taiwanese baseball on the international stage. Not many players from Chinese Taipei have reached the Majors, so fans back home follow his progress closely.

His work ethic and fundamental skills show how sports can cross cultural boundaries.

Contract Details and Professional Agreements

Tsung-Che Cheng’s pro baseball career includes some important contract milestones since joining the Pirates. His deals reflect his international background and steady development in MLB.

Overview of Major Contracts

Cheng signed with the Pirates as an international free agent in 2019 with a $300,000 signing bonus. The Pirates invested in him, even though he wouldn’t debut right away.

The COVID-19 pandemic forced him to wait until 2021 to start his pro career. Despite the delay, the Pirates stuck with their commitment.

Cheng moved up through the minors and eventually landed a spot on the Pirates’ 40-man roster. That promotion protected him from the Rule 5 Draft and set up his MLB debut in April 2025.

Intellectual Property and Copyright Laws

Cheng’s image and likeness are protected under contracts with Major League Baseball and the Pirates. These agreements control how his name and image appear in merchandise, video games, and other products.

The MLB Players Association represents players like Cheng. They negotiate collective bargaining agreements that protect players’ rights and ensure fair pay when their likeness is used.

International players like Cheng sometimes deal with extra challenges around intellectual property. His popularity in Taiwan opens up endorsement opportunities, but those require careful contracts to follow both U.S. and Taiwanese copyright laws.

Net Worth and Financial Profile

Tsung-Che Cheng has started to build a solid financial base as a young MLB player. Most of his income comes from his baseball contract, with some potential for endorsements.

Estimated Net Worth Breakdown

Cheng’s net worth as a rookie is estimated between $800,000 and $1,000,000. Most of that comes from his MLB contract with the Pirates, which pays him $760,000 for the 2025 season.

His assets probably include:

• Baseball salary: $760,000 in guaranteed money for the year
• Signing bonus: A chunk of his original $300,000 signing bonus from 2019
• Personal investments: Maybe some stocks or other investments
• Property: Possibly a modest real estate holding or two

Since he debuted in MLB in April 2025, Cheng’s net worth should grow if he sticks as a regular.

Sources of Income

Cheng’s main source of income is his baseball salary. His one-year deal with the Pirates brings in $760,000 this season.

He might also earn from:

• Endorsements: Maybe some deals with sporting goods brands, though probably limited as a rookie
• Appearance fees: Money for autograph signings or fan events
• Digital content: Possible earnings from social media
• eBooks/instructional content: Maybe a baseball tutorial or a personal story published online

As a Taiwanese player in MLB, Cheng could have unique endorsement chances in Asian markets. Companies often look for international faces to reach global audiences.

If Cheng lands a long-term MLB contract, his income could jump dramatically in the future.

Personal Interests and Societal Impact

Off the field, Tsung-Che Cheng supports social causes and pursues personal interests that reflect his character. He’s shown commitment to personal growth and giving back to the community.

Advocacy in Climate Change and Migration

Cheng has become a supporter of climate change awareness in the baseball world.

After moving from Taiwan to the U.S. to chase his baseball dream, he experienced the challenges of migration firsthand.

That journey shaped his advocacy. Cheng often joins community events focused on environmental sustainability, especially those addressing climate change’s impact on coastal communities in Taiwan and the U.S.

In 2024, he helped organize a tree-planting event in Pittsburgh. He brought together Pirates teammates and local environmental groups.

Cheng has said, “As athletes with a platform, we have a responsibility to address issues that affect everyone’s future.”

Engagement with Reading and Storytelling

Cheng stands out among teammates for his love of reading, especially books that connect him with both Taiwanese and American cultures.

This passion helps him bridge cultural gaps in his baseball career.

He visits local schools near PNC Park, leading storytelling sessions that blend baseball stories with lessons about perseverance and cultural exchange.

These visits have become a hit with students and teachers.

Cheng has mentioned that reading English-language books has really helped his communication skills. That’s been crucial for him as a pro infielder, since he needs to coordinate with teammates on the field.

Involvement in Construction and Iron Industries

Cheng grew up in Taiwan, where his family worked in construction and iron manufacturing. He still keeps close ties to those industries.

Before he signed his $760,000 contract with the Pirates, his family made a living in metal fabrication. That experience stuck with him.

Cheng now feels inspired to invest in sustainable construction technologies. He’s teamed up with a few Taiwanese companies that are testing out eco-friendly building materials. Sometimes, he talks about wanting to connect American and Taiwanese construction ideas—sounds ambitious, but why not?

When baseball’s on break, Cheng likes to visit construction sites and metallurgy shops. He says the precision in ironworking reminds him of the focus baseball demands. Honestly, you can see how those two worlds overlap, even if it’s not obvious at first glance.