Orioles Catcher Makes History with First Game-Ending Robo-Ump Challenge

Samuel Basallo's successful challenge via the Automated Ball-Strike System sealed Baltimore's win over the Rangers.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 11:37pm

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In a historic moment, Baltimore Orioles catcher Samuel Basallo became the first major league player to end a game with a successful challenge using the Automated Ball-Strike System (ABS). Basallo's challenge in the final inning helped the Orioles secure a victory over the Texas Rangers.

Why it matters

The use of robo-umps and the ABS system has been a controversial topic in baseball, with some players and fans skeptical of the technology. Basallo's game-ending challenge showcases how the ABS can impact the outcome of close games and is likely to further the debate around its implementation in the sport.

The details

With the game tied in the bottom of the 9th inning, Basallo came to the plate for the Orioles. The ABS system initially called the final pitch a ball, but Basallo immediately challenged the call. After review, the umpires overturned the call, ruling it a strike that ended the game and gave the Orioles the victory.

  • The game-ending challenge occurred in the bottom of the 9th inning on April 1, 2026.

The players

Samuel Basallo

The Baltimore Orioles catcher who made the historic game-ending challenge using the Automated Ball-Strike System.

Baltimore Orioles

The Major League Baseball team that defeated the Texas Rangers in the game where Basallo made the first game-ending robo-ump challenge.

Texas Rangers

The opposing team that lost to the Baltimore Orioles in the game where Basallo made the first game-ending robo-ump challenge.

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What they’re saying

“It was a crazy moment, but I knew I had to challenge that call. I'm just glad the umps got it right and we were able to win the game.”

— Samuel Basallo, Baltimore Orioles Catcher

What’s next

The Orioles and Rangers will face off again in a three-game series starting on April 4th.

The takeaway

Basallo's successful challenge using the Automated Ball-Strike System highlights the growing role of technology in baseball and the ongoing debate around its implementation. As the first player to end a game this way, Basallo has made his mark on the sport's history.