The Texas Rangers are navigating the early days of the new automated balls and strikes (ABS) system, and it's been a bit of a bumpy ride. Despite a promising start to the season with a 4-2 record and two road series wins, the Rangers are still finding their footing with this technological twist.
The ABS system allows teams two failed challenges on ball/strike calls, adding a new layer of strategy to the game. The challenge system brings tactical intrigue, offering teams a chance to overturn calls they believe were missed. But the Rangers haven't quite mastered this yet.
So far, Texas hitters have issued seven challenges, succeeding on three, placing them 21st in the league with a 43% success rate. Statcast data reveals the Rangers had 38 reasonable chances to challenge but only acted on five, resulting in a half-run deficit due to their decisions-third worst in the league. Their expected run value on potential overturns sits at -2.5 runs, second worst behind Cleveland.
Opponents have capitalized on the Rangers' hesitance, reversing five out of six calls against Texas hitters, costing them an estimated -0.2 runs. The Rangers also faced the unfortunate distinction of being the first team to lose on a walk-off challenge during their series finale in Baltimore.
Defensively, it's been a similar story. The Rangers have yet to win a challenge while on defense, having only attempted one unsuccessful challenge.
They've had 15 reasonable opportunities but haven't pulled the trigger, marking the lowest in the league. Meanwhile, opposing teams have reversed six of eight calls when Texas is on defense, with Baltimore going a perfect 5-for-5 during their recent series.
It's early days, and the ABS system is still new territory for players and coaches. The Rangers have seen numerous opportunities to leverage this system but have been cautious in their approach. Meanwhile, their opponents have been quick to exploit the system, potentially stifling Texas rallies and adding runs to their own tally.
As the season progresses, the Rangers will need to adapt and refine their strategy with ABS to turn these early challenges into advantages.