Baltimore Catcher Makes MLB's First Game-Ending Robo-Ump Challenge

Samuel Basallo's successful challenge overturned a ball call, securing the Orioles' 8-3 win over the Rangers.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 12:35pm

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In the top of the ninth inning of a game between the Baltimore Orioles and Texas Rangers, Orioles catcher Samuel Basallo became the first major league player to successfully challenge a call using the Automated Ball-Strike System (ABS). With two outs, Rangers batter Evan Carter took a 1-2 pitch from Orioles pitcher Albert Suárez that was called a ball by umpire Manny Gonzalez. Basallo challenged the call, and replay showed the pitch caught the upper outside corner of the strike zone, overturning the call and securing the Orioles' 8-3 victory.

Why it matters

The use of automated ball-strike technology in Major League Baseball is a significant development, as it aims to improve the accuracy and consistency of ball and strike calls. Basallo's successful challenge represents a milestone in the implementation of this new system, which is intended to enhance the fairness and integrity of the game.

The details

In the top of the ninth inning with the Orioles leading 8-3, Rangers batter Evan Carter took a 1-2 pitch from Orioles pitcher Albert Suárez that was called a ball by umpire Manny Gonzalez. Orioles catcher Samuel Basallo immediately challenged the call, and replay review showed the pitch caught the upper outside corner of the strike zone, overturning the call and ending the game.

  • The game-ending play occurred in the top of the ninth inning on April 2, 2026.

The players

Samuel Basallo

The Baltimore Orioles catcher who made the successful challenge using the Automated Ball-Strike System, becoming the first major league player to do so.

Albert Suárez

The Baltimore Orioles pitcher who was on the mound when Basallo made the successful challenge.

Evan Carter

The Texas Rangers batter who took the pitch that was challenged by Basallo.

Manny Gonzalez

The umpire who initially called the pitch a ball, before Basallo's successful challenge.

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What they’re saying

“This is a historic moment for the game of baseball. The Automated Ball-Strike System is designed to improve the accuracy and fairness of the sport, and Basallo's challenge shows that it is working as intended.”

— Rob Manfred, MLB Commissioner

What’s next

The successful challenge by Basallo is expected to lead to further discussions and analysis of the Automated Ball-Strike System's implementation and impact on the game.

The takeaway

Basallo's successful challenge using the Automated Ball-Strike System represents a significant milestone in the adoption of this new technology in Major League Baseball, as the league aims to enhance the fairness and integrity of the game.