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ABS system exposes ump errors in Tigers-Braves game
2 May
Summary
- Computer umpire revealed significant missed calls by home-plate umpire.
- Umpire had a history of inaccurate calls in previous games.
- ABS system increases fan engagement during challenges.
The Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) system is increasingly demonstrating its value in Major League Baseball by exposing significant officiating errors. During a recent Tigers-Braves game on May 2nd, 2026, home-plate umpire Roberto Ortiz was caught making a glaringly bad call, which was immediately revealed by the ABS system.
Commentators were left astonished by the missed call, emphasizing the system's role in ensuring accuracy. This incident is not an isolated event for Ortiz, who previously worked a game in September 2025 where he reportedly missed 25 calls before ABS was instituted.
Further data from 2024 indicates a pattern of inaccuracy, with Ortiz missing 30 calls in one game and maintaining only an 82.5% correct call rate. He also made a call in 2023 where a pitch over 5 inches off the plate was deemed a strike.
Commissioner Rob Manfred commented on the fan reception of ABS, noting its surprising popularity. He observed that the challenge system itself has become a point of engagement, with fans actively watching replays on the Jumbotron.
