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ABS Trials Show Half of Challenges Overturned as Teams Refine Strategy

Early results show frequent reversals that will test how teams manage pitch-by-pitch reviews.

Overview

  • Statcast’s Spring Training sample shows 53% of ABS challenges overturned (242 of 457), with pitchers and catchers winning 56% and hitters at 49%.
  • Usage varies widely by club, with the Yankees logging 14 reviews so far and the Marlins just one, reflecting divergent early approaches.
  • Notable moments include five straight overturned calls on one plate umpire and an ABS ruling that a called strike missed the zone by under a tenth of an inch.
  • Under MLB’s rules, only the batter, pitcher or catcher may challenge within seconds of a call, teams start with two challenges, and successful reviews are retained.
  • Player reactions remain mixed, highlighted by a Yankees reliever losing a clear-cut challenge, a Jack Flaherty–Dylan Campbell exchange after an upheld strike, and some veterans choosing to avoid the system.