The Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) Challenge System has become a hot topic in Major League Baseball (MLB) this spring. It aims to ensure that balls and strikes are called accurately, but it’s also putting umpires in the spotlight—in a not-so-flattering way.
During a recent Grapefruit League game between the Boston Red Sox and the Pittsburgh Pirates, home plate umpire Mitch Trzeciak faced significant scrutiny. He had several calls overturned by the ABS system, highlighting moments where he misjudged pitches.
It all started with a challenge from Pirates catcher Endy Rodriguez in the first inning. A pitch called a ball was shown to be a clear strike in the ABS review. NESN’s play-by-play announcer Tom Caron noted, “And that one, kind of right down the middle.”
This is why ABS was invented. 🤣 pic.twitter.com/RyHmz7BFOM
— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) February 24, 2026
In total, five of Trzeciak’s calls were overturned before the third inning concluded, with three errors happening in quick succession. The obvious mistakes drew mixed reactions from fans and commentators alike, often resulting in laughter on social media.
You think YOU’VE had a bad day?? Here’s 5 Consecutive Calls overturned by ABS challenges. The cheer at the end. 🤣 pic.twitter.com/5EG0WLgm21
— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) February 24, 2026
Caron humorously remarked on the pressure Trzeciak must feel, noting, “You’ve missed two, and one was right down the middle, and one was two inches outside. Everyone knows it.” This sort of honest appraisal highlights the growing tension umpires face with the introduction of technology in the game.
When Trzeciak finally got a call right later in the game, the crowd responded with a cheer, proving how significant this newfound scrutiny is for umpires. Trzeciak, who was a Triple-A umpire last season, might find the ABS challenging his path to the major leagues even further in 2026.
Historically, umpires have had a degree of leeway with their calls, often leading to heated debates over questionable decisions. With technology now holding them accountable, more fans are eager to see precise officiating. A survey from the MLB Players Association revealed that around 73% of players support the use of technology to improve game accuracy, reflecting a shift in expectations within the sport.
This shift represents a broader trend in sports, where technology increasingly influences game outcomes and fan engagement. As MLB continues to embrace innovations like the ABS, umpires will need to adapt to a new landscape that demands accountability—and accuracy.
The ABS is more than just a tool; it is changing the way we experience baseball. For fans, it promises a fairer game. For umpires, it introduces a new level of pressure. As the season unfolds, this relationship between technology and officiating will be fascinating to observe.
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ABS,Boston Red Sox,Mitch Trzeciak,MLB umpires,nesn,pittsburgh pirates,Tom Caron
