Twins Manager Tossed in First ABS-Related MLB Ejection

Derek Shelton argued that pitcher Ryan Helsley did not signal for an ABS review quickly enough, leading to his ejection.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 12:50am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In the ninth inning of a game between the Minnesota Twins and Baltimore Orioles, Twins manager Derek Shelton was ejected after arguing with umpires over an Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) system review. Shelton believed that Twins pitcher Ryan Helsley did not signal for the ABS review quickly enough, but the umpiring crew disagreed and ejected Shelton for his animated protest.

Why it matters

This incident marks the first time an MLB manager has been ejected over a dispute related to the new ABS system, which is being implemented across the league this season. It highlights the potential for conflicts and confusion as players, managers, and umpires adjust to the new automated strike zone technology.

The details

In the bottom of the 9th inning, with the Twins trailing the Orioles 8-6, Twins pitcher Ryan Helsley appeared to have struck out Orioles batter Josh Bell. However, the ABS system overturned the umpire's call, ruling it a ball instead of a strike. Twins manager Derek Shelton argued that Helsley did not signal for the ABS review quickly enough, but the umpiring crew disagreed and ejected Shelton for his animated protest on the field.

  • The incident occurred in the bottom of the 9th inning of the Twins-Orioles game on March 29, 2026.
  • It was the first ABS-related ejection in MLB history, coming less than a week into the 2026 season.

The players

Derek Shelton

The manager of the Minnesota Twins, who was ejected from the game for arguing an ABS-related call.

Ryan Helsley

The Twins pitcher who signaled for an ABS review after an umpire's call, which led to the dispute with manager Derek Shelton.

Josh Bell

The Orioles batter whose at-bat led to the ABS-related dispute and Shelton's ejection.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I didn't think Helsley tapped his hat quick enough. Maybe he did, maybe he didn't. But I didn't feel he did. I feel it's gotta be something that's in the three seconds and I didn't think it was there. But the umpiring crew thought it was.”

— Derek Shelton, Twins Manager

What’s next

The MLB will likely review the incident and provide guidance to teams and umpires on the proper ABS review procedures to avoid similar conflicts in the future.

The takeaway

This ejection highlights the challenges the league faces in implementing the new ABS technology and the need for clear communication and training around the review process to ensure a smooth transition for players, managers, and umpires.