Spring Training Spotlight: Giants and the New Challenge Era
In Scottsdale, Arizona, the San Francisco Giants are gearing up for a season that introduces a new twist to the game: the Automated Ball-Strike system (ABS). Manager Tony Vitello is leading the charge, using a straightforward approach to determine who gets the green light to challenge calls when the season starts: a stat board.
With the season opener just five weeks away, the question of who should challenge calls is buzzing across all 30 MLB camps. The challenge system, allowing teams two challenges of the home-plate umpire’s strike zone per game, introduces a fresh layer of strategy. If a game heads into extra innings, teams without challenges will gain an additional one, replenished with each extra inning.
This system not only aims to correct bad calls but also adds a strategic element that managers and front offices are keen to master. Using spring training data and insights from Triple-A staff familiar with the challenge system, teams are crafting their strategies.
Different teams are exploring various approaches: some might restrict pitchers from challenging, while others may allow specific players to make the call. Game situations could dictate the rules, or some clubs might opt for no restrictions at all.
Texas Rangers manager Skip Schumaker notes, “It’s about the situation. We’re going to give them scenarios where this is optimal. The key is to not be selfish.”
Teams are spending spring training analyzing which players excel at recognizing calls. Pitchers, with their investment in the strike zone, might find it particularly challenging. Chris Sale, a seasoned All-Star, admits he’d “never” challenge a call, acknowledging his bias toward thinking all his pitches are strikes.
Cincinnati Reds manager Terry Francona echoes this sentiment, suggesting a reliance on catchers due to pitchers’ inherent biases. Milwaukee Brewers manager Pat Murphy adds that even from the bench, perceptions can be misleading.
Spring training tests showed pitchers’ challenges were correct only 41% of the time, compared to 50% for hitters and 56% for catchers. This aligns with Triple-A data, but pitchers could skew these numbers.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has considered limiting challenges for certain players, emphasizing the importance of self-evaluation in knowing the strike zone. The challenge system could potentially stir discord within teams, with players needing to balance personal pride with team success.
Kansas City Royals president J.J. Picollo highlights the importance of humility, noting that players often recognize their limitations and prioritize the team’s success.
As spring training unfolds, managers like Roberts will evaluate which players excel at making these crucial calls. Despite the stakes being low for now, this period is crucial for teams to fine-tune their strategies.
Roberts humorously notes that he’d trust himself to make accurate challenges, though, unfortunately, he’s not eligible to participate. As teams navigate this new era, the balance of strategy, teamwork, and humility will be key in mastering the challenge system.