Episode Details

Major League Baseballs Automated Ball-Strike Challenge System made its debut in the regular season, with the Cleveland Guardians hosting the Chicago Cubs on April 3, 2026. The Guardians won 4-1, with pitchers like Joey Cantillo setting the pace. Teams have two challenges per game, signaled by tapping their cap or helmet within two seconds of the pitch. Successful challenges keep the challenge, with a graphic displaying the call on the scoreboard and TV. The system, tested in the minors and spring training, has been met with mixed reactions, with fans appreciating the quick justice on bad calls, while purists miss the human umpire touch. In the opener, the system was used three times, with the Guardians winning two out of thirteen challenges league-wide, the worst record. Manager Stephen Vogt sees it as a learning curve, keeping some old-school vibe intact while improving on blatant misses.

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