Chinese Baseball Association extends deal with MLB

The Chinese Baseball Association (CBA) has signed a deal in Tianjin to extend its partnership with Major League Baseball (MLB), against the background of the ongoing 13th National Games of China.

The extension is aimed at developing youth training projects, fostering grassroots baseball talent and promoting the popularity of the sport in China. 

Ties with MLB started in 2002, and helped China make great achievements in the 2008 Beijing Olympics, as well as in the 2009, 2013 and 2017 World Baseball Classic tournament.

James Small, MLB vice-president for Asia-Pacific, stated: “Because of our partnership, more kids are playing the game of baseball, more adults are playing the game of baseball. The game is continuing to grow at a very very high level. And we are excited to be a part of that.”

 “It is really our honor to continue our partnership with the CBA in boosting the development of Chinese baseball,” said Aaron Wang, Acting Managing Director of MLB China. “Our common goal is to foster Chinese baseball talents and generate enthusiasm for the sport among the general public, which is also the key component of our further partnership.”

Source: Huanqiu & Xinhua

Proofread by William Logsdon