The 8th U12 Baseball World Cup concluded on August 3 at the Tainan Asia-Pacific Baseball Stadium, undeterred by the wind and rain. The United States claimed the championship for the sixth time, Japan took second place, and Korea earned its first-ever podium finish with third place. Taiwan’s young players performed impressively in the preliminary round, advancing to the super round with four wins. Unfortunately, they were unable to overcome the powerful offenses of the U.S. and Japan and missed the chance to play in the final. In the bronze medal game, Taiwan lost 2–0 to Korea, marking the first time the team did not finish in the top three.

Tainan has long been a hub for baseball development in Taiwan. Since 2015, when then-Mayor William Lai successfully secured the hosting rights for the U12 Baseball World Cup, GFC has been one of the event's main sponsors. For 10 consecutive years, GFC has supported young national players as they strive for glory on home soil. Back in 2015, Mayor Lai personally visited the stadium to cheer on the players and expressed his gratitude to Chairman Tang of GFC for the sponsorship. He even high-fived young player Lin Yu-Min in support. Last year, Lin started as the pitcher in the WBSC Premier12 final and helped Taiwan win the world championship.

Team USA wins U12 championship for the sixth time

Japan takes second place

Korea defeats Taiwan 2–0 to claim third place

Korea and Taiwan face off in the bronze medal match

2015 photo: Then-Mayor William Lai with GFC Chairman, Charles Tang

Mayor Lai high-fives pitcher Lin Yu-Min (now a pitcher in U.S. Minor League Triple-A)