Zheng Zong-zhe, the 24‑year‑old Taiwanese left‑hander, signed a minor‑league contract with the New York Mets after being designated for assignment twice by the Pirates and Rays. He immediately reported to the Chinese Taipei national team to prepare for the 2026 World Baseball Classic, turning recent setbacks into motivation. He aims to showcase his improved split‑finger slider and earn a spot on the major‑league roster.
What Does “Designated for Assignment” Mean?
Designated for assignment (DFA) is an MLB roster mechanism that removes a player from the 40‑man roster. The team then has seven days to trade, release, or outright the player to the minors. Zheng was first DFA‑ed by the Pittsburgh Pirates in September 2024 to clear space for a trade deadline acquisition, and again by the Tampa Bay Rays in early October, sending him back to Triple‑A.
Zheng’s Emotional Journey From DFA to Determination
After the first DFA, Zheng admitted he felt disappointment and even shed tears, acknowledging that “I didn’t pitch well, no excuses.” The second DFA intensified his resolve. He chose to convert the frustration into fuel, revamping his mechanics and focusing on command of his change‑up and off‑speed pitches during the offseason.
New York Mets’ Interest and Expected Role
The Mets announced Zheng’s signing on Tuesday, adding him on a minor‑league deal and assigning him to their Triple‑A affiliate for the 2025 season. Mets pitching development director praised his left‑handed angle and velocity, stating the organization believes Zheng can quickly adapt and compete for a major‑league promotion. Zheng expressed gratitude, saying each appearance will be an opportunity to prove himself.
Why Zheng Prioritized the Chinese Taipei Team
Instead of reporting to Mets spring training, Zheng traveled to Taipei on January 15 to join the Chinese Taipei national team’s World Baseball Classic camp. His early commitment underscores loyalty to his country and a strategic move to sharpen his skills against top international competition, providing valuable experience against power hitters.
Impact on Taiwanese Pitchers and Future Outlook
Zheng’s path reflects the broader challenges Taiwanese left‑handers face in MLB, from Chen Chin‑feng to Wu Yi‑chang and Wang Jun‑wei. While the presence of Taiwanese arms in the majors is growing, they must constantly battle roster limits and rapid adjustments. Zheng’s resilience offers a blueprint for younger players, showing that adversity can drive improvement and increase Taiwan’s representation on the world stage.
Conclusion: From DFA to New Beginnings
In a matter of weeks, Zheng moved from the Pirates to the Rays and now the Mets, turning each DFA into a stepping stone. Backed by a renewed mindset, he is poised to contribute both to the Mets’ pitching depth and Chinese Taipei’s World Baseball Classic ambitions. His journey exemplifies the determination of Taiwanese pitchers striving for respect and success in global baseball.
