TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwanese infielder Cheng Tsung-che (鄭宗哲) was designated for assignment by the Tampa Bay Rays on Monday as the club cleared space on its 40-man roster after acquiring two players from the Atlanta Braves, per CNA.
The move allows the Rays to re-sign Cheng to a minor league contract if he clears waivers without being claimed by another Major League Baseball team. However, a quick return to the Rays’ 40-man roster appears unlikely after the team added utility infielder Brett Wisely.
The 24-year-old Cheng was the only Taiwanese position player to appear in MLB during the 2025 season. He made his major league debut last year with the Pittsburgh Pirates, appearing in three games after injuries depleted the team’s infield.
Cheng went 0-for-7 with three strikeouts before being designated for assignment by the Pirates on Dec. 19. The Rays signed him on Jan. 7 before his latest move.
He spent most of last season at the Triple-A level, playing 107 games and batting .209 with one home run, 36 RBI, an on-base plus slugging percentage of .578 and 18 stolen bases.
Signed by the Pirates in July 2019, Cheng rose to become the organization’s No. 9 prospect in 2024. He is regarded primarily for his defense and versatility, with the ability to play both second base and shortstop.
If Cheng remains in the Rays’ organization after the waiver process, he could compete for a roster spot during spring training. He also has a minor league option remaining.
According to the Rays’ website, Wisely hit .214 over 168 MLB games. While his offensive output is limited, he offers defensive versatility, having played multiple infield positions as well as some outfield, making him a potential utility option. With spring training still weeks away, second base remains one of Tampa Bay’s key unanswered questions.