It’s only a matter of time for the top Taiwanese prospect.
On this edition of the Pirates’ Prospect Update series, we take a look at where Tsung-Che Cheng is at in his career and if he’s ready to make the jump to Pittsburgh.
Given that Oneil Cruz will now be playing in the outfield, there is a vacancy at shortstop, and Cheng could be just the player to take on that roll. Since making his American debut in 2021, Cheng has quickly rose through the ranks, dominating in Greensboro before advancing to Altoona in 2023, and then to Indianapolis in 2024.
In his short time in the Minors, he has shown the ability to adapt to the competition at the next-level and just may be the best defensive shortstop in the Pirates’ system right now. Cruz was at times a defensive liability, and having a more steady defender at that position could be huge for the Pirates’ success moving forward.
Though there were times where he struggled at the plate throughout 2024, Cheng still ended the season red-hot with Indianapolis, hitting .462/.588/.538 in six games with the Indians. While, not a huge power threat, he does have a knack for making great contact with the ball and when on base is dangerous as he has accumulated 92 stolen bases in the Minor Leagues.
Of course, the question is if Cheng can fill the shoes as the Pirates’ shortstop of the future. Given the team’s track record of preferring to build a team cheaper than most, Cheng would be the cheapest option and would have control over his contract for the next several years at the very least. He would also solve the problem the Pirates had of committing errors defensively, and will also provide a steady offensive presence if he adjusts to big league pitchers.
Given that he has only played in six Triple-A games thus far, I don’t think he’ll be able to make the jump to the Majors immediately after Spring Training, but if he can impress in Bradenton, than maybe the window of opportunity becomes even greater. Tsung-Che Cheng is currently the 18th-ranked Pirates prospect.