New York Mets host 'AI Taiwan Day' at Citi Field
紐約大都會隊在花旗球場舉辦「AI台灣日」活動
| Sold-out crowd watches Dodgers’ Shohei Ohtani face Mets’ Juan Soto
TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Major League Baseball’s New York Mets hosted the annual “AI Taiwan Day” at Citi Field on Saturday in a sold-out game against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Taipei 101 Chair Janet Chia (賈永婕) threw out the ceremonial first pitch before an audience of 40,000. The Mets defeated the Dodgers 5-2. Chia wore a custom jersey featuring “Taiwan” in orange on the front and “Taipei 101” on the back, with the national flag embroidered on her right sleeve and glove, per UDN. "At that moment when I was pitching, I knew that everyone would see our national flag and the world would see Taiwan," said Chia. She was joined on the field by Kevin Tsay (蔡慶輝), president of the Taiwan Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey, who caught the pitch at home plate. “I hope everyone cheers enthusiastically — for Chairwoman Chia and for Taiwan,” he said. Now in its 20th year, “AI Taiwan Day” is supported by the Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce of New York, the New Jersey Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce, and the Taiwanese Junior Chamber of Commerce of New York. These organizations mobilize members to purchase advance tickets that include giveaways such as a baseball cap, a “Taiwan #1” jersey, and a tote bag. Taiwanese-style meals were also available for fans. Sam Lin (林慶甫), president of the Taiwan Chamber of Commerce in New York, said he was pleased to have Chia attend. “She not only represents Taipei 101, but also Taiwan,” he said, noting the flag on her glove and attire. “I believe all Taiwanese will feel proud.” Lee Chih-chiang (李志強), director-general of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in New York, also joined the event and took part in the opening ceremony. A “Community Spirit Award” ceremony was held to honor six individuals who have made long-standing contributions to the overseas Taiwanese community. This year’s game drew particular attention due to the presence of Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani and Mets slugger Juan Soto. In addition to celebrating Taiwanese culture, the event provided a platform to introduce Taiwan to a broader US audience. |
|
| Sean Scanlan, Taiwan News, Staff Writer | |
| 2025-05-25 |
