Mariners' Opening Day: A Lesson in Embracing New Tech
The Seattle Mariners' dreams of a perfect season were dashed right out of the gate by the Cleveland Guardians. In their 6-4 loss, the Mariners faced a new challenge: the Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) system. While the Guardians capitalized on this technology, the Mariners hesitated, and it cost them.
Cleveland made the game's only two ABS challenges. Steven Kwan's challenge was more about frustration and, unsurprisingly, didn't pan out.
However, catcher Bo Naylor's challenge against Cole Young was spot on. Naylor turned a ball on a 2-2 changeup into a strikeout, preventing what could have been a game-changing rally for the Mariners.
If Young had reached base, he might have scored after Leo Rivas walked and Brendan Donovan doubled. Instead, the Mariners were left empty-handed.
Cal Raleigh's Missed Opportunity
The Mariners didn't make a single challenge, and Cal Raleigh's reluctance stood out. With the Mariners trailing 5-4 and both challenges in hand, Raleigh had a prime chance to contest a call.
After a questionable strikeout call by umpire Lance Barksdale, Raleigh seemed to consider challenging but ultimately walked back to the dugout. Challenges must be immediate, and this hesitation left the Mariners with a missed opportunity.
Raleigh later acknowledged he should have challenged. He mentioned needing to get accustomed to the ABS system, especially since he spent spring training with Team USA for the World Baseball Classic, which didn't use ABS.
Manager Dan Wilson's Role
Manager Dan Wilson echoed Raleigh's sentiments, noting that adapting to the ABS system will take time. Yet, this should have been a focus during spring training. Mariners hitters ranked in the bottom 10 for challenges during Cactus League play, indicating a missed opportunity for preparation.
Wilson emphasized the importance of using challenges, especially in close situations late in the game. "We’ve talked about it and we’ll remind the guys as much as we can about using the challenges," Wilson stated. "And when they’re close, that’s when they’ll definitely be used."
Moving Forward
Thursday's game should serve as a wake-up call for the Mariners. While no one wants to waste challenges, failing to use them at all can be even more detrimental. As the season progresses, embracing the ABS system could be crucial for the Mariners' success.