Marlins' Catchers Embrace New ABS Challenge System

Agustín Ramírez and Liam Hicks have successfully overturned 18 calls, the most in MLB, as they adapt to the new technology.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 9:33pm

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A cubist, fragmented illustration depicting the motion of a baseball catcher squatting and throwing, with the vibrant colors of the Marlins and Tigers uniforms breaking apart into overlapping geometric shapes.The Marlins' catchers are using the new ABS Challenge System to gain an edge on the defensive side of the game.Today in Detroit

The Miami Marlins' catching duo of Agustín Ramírez and Liam Hicks have embraced the new ABS Challenge System in their second MLB season, successfully overturning 18 calls - tied for the most in the majors. The catchers are being strategic with their challenges, primarily on two-strike counts or with runners in scoring position. While they've had some defensive miscues, the Marlins have seen overall improvement from their young backstops compared to their rookie campaigns.

Why it matters

The ABS Challenge System is a new technology introduced in 2026 that gives catchers the ability to challenge ball and strike calls. How Ramírez and Hicks adapt to this new responsibility will be crucial for the Marlins, who are relying on their young catching tandem to shore up the team's defense after struggles last season.

The details

Ramírez and Hicks have combined for 28 challenges so far this season, the most in MLB. Despite the high volume, they are being selective, primarily challenging on two-strike counts or with runners in scoring position. Ramírez in particular has been successful, overturning 11 of 14 challenges for a 79% success rate, second-best among catchers with at least 9 challenges. The catchers' improved ability to read the strike zone has helped the Marlins gain 4 strikeouts and eliminate 2 walks through the ABS system.

  • Through 15 games this season
  • On Saturday, April 11, 2026

The players

Agustín Ramírez

The Marlins' starting catcher who has successfully overturned 11 of 14 challenges this season, the second-best overturn rate in MLB.

Liam Hicks

The Marlins' backup catcher who has worked alongside Ramírez to embrace the new ABS Challenge System in their second MLB season.

Clayton McCullough

The Marlins' manager, who has praised the progress of Ramírez and Hicks behind the plate this season.

Janson Junk

The Marlins' right-handed pitcher, who has benefited from Ramírez's successful challenges.

Dillon Dingler

The Tigers' batter who was involved in a catcher's interference play with Ramírez.

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What they’re saying

“They've been doing a great job, especially Gus. I've only thrown to Gus so far, and I think he's gotten me a few. Just watching the games, both [Hicks] and Gus have been really good to understand the zone. I thought that strike three call was really good on him. From my perspective, I thought it was all the way in the zone. That's why we don't challenge. But that was a big strikeout, and [I'm] thankful for the ABS to be able to have the opportunity.”

— Janson Junk, Marlins Pitcher

“Some of these things seem to only happen to me. I'm just making the play, trying to catch the ball so I can throw the ball, and then, you find a bat in the middle of the way. I think there's been some positives on the defensive side. You try to do your best all the time. Like in this situation, it's a bit frustrating, right? You get the error for something like that, and then there's more runs that come along. So I just wish these things don't happen, so we can just continue to do more good stuff and good positive things, because the outcome doesn't reflect it.”

— Agustín Ramírez, Marlins Catcher

What’s next

The Marlins will continue to rely on Ramírez and Hicks' ability to effectively utilize the ABS Challenge System as they look to improve their defensive performance behind the plate this season.

The takeaway

The Marlins' young catching duo of Agustín Ramírez and Liam Hicks have embraced the new ABS Challenge System, using it strategically to overturn calls and help their pitching staff. While they've had some defensive miscues, the overall improvement from their rookie seasons is a positive sign for the Marlins as they look to shore up their backstop position.