Taipei: The New York Yankees hosted Taiwanese Heritage Day at Yankee Stadium on Wednesday, with fans donning special-themed Yankee jerseys with the word “Taiwan” and caps bearing the Republic of China flag. The event was organized by ROF International Sport Marketing Co. and the Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce of North America (TCCNA) and took place during the Yankees’ game against the Detroit Tigers, which drew more than 36,000 fans.
According to Focus Taiwan, it was the first-ever Taiwanese Heritage Day at Yankee Stadium, and a promotional video about Taiwan was shown on the stadium’s big screen before the game began. With fans attending in person and millions watching the game on television and online, organizers said they hope the event will raise Taiwan’s visibility and strengthen the sense of community among fans and expatriates.
TCCNA Director Pai Yue-chu highlighted the significance of the Yankees’ involvement, noting it as a special milestone since it was their first time hosting such an event. Pai expressed hope of maintaining the relationship with the Yankees and for the team to host Taiwanese Heritage Day again next year.
While similar Taiwan Day events have been held across the United States, the Taiwanese Heritage Day at Yankee Stadium underscores the connection Taiwan has to the team. This connection dates back to the era of Taiwanese pitcher Wang Chien-ming, who played for the Yankees from 2005 to 2009.
