Taiwan Climbs to No. 2 in WBSC Baseball Rankings as Sports Ministry Bills Advance
Taiwan has solidified its position as the second-ranked country in the World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) Men’s Baseball World Rankings, moving ahead of Mexico after a stellar performance in the WBSC Premier12 tournament. Meanwhile, Taiwan’s legislature has made significant strides in establishing a Ministry of Sports to enhance the nation’s sporting infrastructure and culture.
Taiwan Rises in Baseball Rankings
Previously tied with Mexico for second place with 4,118 points, Taiwan now stands alone at No. 2, boasting 5,498 points. This leap comes after Taiwan’s victory over Japan in the Premier12 tournament final on Sunday.
The updated rankings place Japan firmly in the top spot with 6,866 points, but Taiwan has significantly narrowed the gap to 1,368 points, down from 1,638. Venezuela now claims the third position with 4,846 points, while Mexico drops to fourth with 4,729 points.
Approval of Sports Ministry Bills
In other developments, Taiwan’s legislature has approved draft bills to establish a Ministry of Sports and a sports-for-all administration. These bills, previously greenlit by the Cabinet on October 17, passed a joint session of the Judiciary and Organic Laws and Statutes Committee and the Education and Culture Committee on Tuesday, with cross-party support.
Role and Structure of the Ministry
The proposed ministry aims to create a “sports for all” environment and foster a robust sporting culture. Its focus areas include education, athletics, industry, and international diplomacy, emphasizing diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability.
The ministry’s structure would include a minister, two deputy ministers, and a vice minister. It will oversee national sports policies, develop talent, manage industries, provide consultation for professional sports, and preserve sporting culture and history. Additional responsibilities include promoting sports science, managing a sports development fund, and regulating sports betting.
Legislative Proposals and Amendments
Several lawmakers proposed amendments to expand the ministry’s scope:
- KMT Legislator Hung Meng-kai suggested building a museum to preserve Taiwan’s sporting history and culture.
- KMT Legislator Ko Chih-en advocated for integrating full-time coaching roles within the ministry.
- TPP caucus whip Huang Kuo-chang and fellow TPP lawmakers emphasized adapted physical education, para-athletics, inclusive sports, and hosting international events.
- DPP Legislator Lin I-chin proposed enhancing labor conditions in the sports industry to improve labor-management relations.
Lawmakers reached a consensus on the ministry’s comprehensive responsibilities, which include fostering talent development, consulting on professional sports, promoting national and international events, and preserving Taiwan’s sporting legacy.
Baseball Day Proposal
In a symbolic move, DPP caucus chief executive Rosalia Wu successfully proposed recognizing November 24 as National Baseball Day, further highlighting Taiwan’s dedication to its baseball heritage.
Next Steps
The approved bills will now proceed to cross-party negotiations, where lawmakers can refine the proposals. These developments mark a significant step in strengthening Taiwan’s commitment to sports and its international reputation as a baseball powerhouse.
