CPBL Suspends Three Players for Illegal Online Poker Involvement
The Chinese Professional Baseball League (CPBL) has taken disciplinary action against three players from the TSG Hawks, imposing suspensions and fines following an internal probe that verified their participation in online poker games. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges Taiwanese professional sports leagues face in upholding a strict “no-gambling” policy, which is rooted in Taiwan’s broad prohibition on almost all forms of betting.
Disciplinary Measures Against the Players
Following an internal investigation conducted by the league and the TSG Hawks, it was determined that Guo Yu-yan, Chen Guan-hao, and Wu Yu-cheng had participated in prohibited online gambling sessions. Guo, identified as the organizer, received the heaviest penalty – a 10-game suspension and a 100,000 NT fine (approx. USD 3,294). Chen and Wu were each handed a five-game suspension and fined 50,000 NT (approx. USD 1,647). League officials expressed concern about the reputational damage caused by the case, noting:
“Engaging in online gambling is not a sanctioned activity for players, which has tarnished the image of professional baseball in Taiwan. Baseball clubs must impose better internal monitoring and instruct players on the code of conduct.”
- See also: How To Play Poker Online?
CPBL Emphasizes Integrity of the Sport
The league highlighted that players are expected to uphold integrity and represent the core values of professional baseball. In its statement, the CPBL stressed:
“We ask all clubs and players to uphold the good image and core values of professional baseball, and to understand what those values mean for society.”
Gambling Laws in Taiwan
Gambling in Taiwan is tightly regulated, with only the state-run lottery legally permitted. Since 2022, the government has strengthened enforcement by blocking access to poker websites, but illegal games continue to operate through offshore apps and private sessions.
This is not the first gambling-related controversy for the CPBL. In August 2024, five players were suspended for participating in illegal brick-and-mortar poker games. The latest suspensions reflect the league’s ongoing effort to prevent athletes from engaging in unregulated gambling activities.
