Overview:
Palauan teams won two of three games against a visiting Taiwanese squad during the 2026 Taiwan-Palau Baseball Goodwill Series, combining competitive baseball with a celebration of a 14-year sporting partnership.
Athletes from both countries compete in Koror while strengthening sports and cultural connections.
By: Ngeldei Tulop
KOROR, Palau (June 6, 2026) — Palauan baseball teams won two of three games against a visiting Taiwanese squad during the 2026 Taiwan-Palau Baseball Goodwill Series at Asahi Field, showcasing both competitive play and the enduring partnership between the two baseball communities.
Taiwan opened the series with a 3-1 victory over Ngermid behind a strong pitching performance from starter Xie Zhihao and reliever Liu Minghao, who combined to limit Palau’s offense after both teams exchanged runs in the opening inning.
Palau bounced back in Game 2 as Ngerbeched United edged Taiwan 10-8 in a back-and-forth contest. The teams were tied through much of the game before Ngerbeched capitalized late to secure the win and even the series at one game apiece.
In the finale, Airai delivered the most decisive result of the tournament, defeating Taiwan 13-3. Airai built an early lead and continued to pressure the Taiwanese pitching staff, while Taiwan managed only three runs in the contest.
Beyond the scores, organizers said the series was intended to strengthen friendship and baseball development between Palau and Taiwan. Taiwanese players spent time interacting with local spectators, sharing baseball techniques and experiences while fostering closer ties with the community.
The games are part of a 14-year partnership among the Taiwan International Baseball Exchange and Development Association, Palau Major League Baseball and the Palau Baseball Federation, focusing on player development, competition and cultural exchange.
While Palauan teams claimed the series, organizers from both countries emphasized that the goodwill tournament represented more than wins and losses, highlighting baseball’s role in strengthening the longstanding friendship between Palau and Taiwan.