CPBL Foreign Players Updates Volume #429
Rakuten Monkeys News: Tyler Eppler
On February 5, the Rakuten Monkeys announced the signing of Tyler Eppler for the 2026 CPBL season. The 33-year-old American right-hander, who previously pitched for the Dragons (2024–25) and the Guardians (2023), will return for his fourth season in Taiwan, this time as a member of the Monkeys.
According to the team, Tyler Eppler has consistently proven over the past few seasons that he can perform in the CPBL, which is one of the key qualities they value when signing foreign players.
In the press release, the Monkeys also appeared to take a subtle jab at the TSG Hawks for allegedly violating the league’s anti-tampering rules back in January. They first thanked the Dragons for their assistance and cooperation during the signing process, specifically for releasing Tyler Eppler’s negotiation rights early. The Monkeys then emphasised how both clubs followed league regulations and set a positive example of how these situations should be handled.
You can read more about the Hawks’ alleged tampering issue from January 10 here.
During the 2025 season, Tyler Eppler appeared in 21 games, posting a 3.21 ERA (107 ERA+) and a 1.12 WHIP over 115 innings. While he remains a capable and reliable pitcher, there were signs of slight decline compared to previous seasons, with many of his numbers hovering closer to league average. That said, his durability and excellent 4.9% walk rate still stand out.
With the signing of Tyler Eppler, the Rakuten Monkeys currently have Pedro Fernández (2-year deal), Kyle Marman and Morgan McSweeney as their group of foreign players for the 2026 CPBL season.
Wei Chuan Dragons’ Tyler Eppler pitched 8 scoreless innings with 5 strikeouts. pic.twitter.com/21YIwrbPIN
— CPBL STATS (Taiwan Dark Lemon) 🪬🔮 (@GOCPBL) April 25, 2025
Further Readings
Foreign players come and go. Therefore, we have compiled a foreign player tracker, and I’ll be updating that list regularly to keep pace with the ever-changing roster shuffle throughout the 2026 CPBL season.
I’m guessing Eppler gets a five/month $100K guarantee based on his experience & track record.
If Fernandez gets hurt this year, the Monkeys are probably sunk, although I kind of like Morgan McSweeney.