Astros' Paredes Could Benefit Most from New ABS Challenge System

Infielder led MLB in called strikes on pitches outside the zone over the last 3 seasons

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Houston Astros infielder Isaac Paredes has received the most called strikes on pitches outside the strike zone over the past three seasons, making him a prime candidate to benefit from the new automatic ball-strike (ABS) challenge system being implemented in MLB this year. Paredes used the challenge system during a Grapefruit League game against the Marlins, successfully overturning one call, and believes the new system will be a "great help" for hitters like himself who often get penalized on borderline pitches.

Why it matters

The ABS challenge system is a new rule change aimed at improving the accuracy of ball and strike calls, which has been a source of frustration for many hitters, especially those like Paredes who frequently get called out on pitches outside the zone. This could have a significant impact on Paredes' performance and the Astros' offense if he is able to successfully challenge more of these borderline calls.

The details

In the last three seasons, Paredes has received the most called strikes on pitches outside the strike zone (198) among all MLB hitters, behind only Seiya Suzuki and Randy Arozarena. Under the new ABS system, teams get two challenges per game and can retain successful challenges. Paredes says he doesn't plan to use the challenge system often, only on pitches he knows are "way out of the zone." In his first game using the system, Paredes successfully challenged one called strike that was ruled a ball after review.

  • On March 5, 2026, Paredes used the ABS challenge system for the first time in a Grapefruit League game against the Marlins.

The players

Isaac Paredes

A Houston Astros infielder who has received the most called strikes on pitches outside the strike zone over the last three seasons among MLB hitters.

Sandy Alcantara

A right-handed pitcher for the Miami Marlins who faced Paredes in the Grapefruit League game.

Christian Walker

A first baseman for the Houston Astros who also successfully challenged two called strikes in the same at-bat during the game against the Marlins.

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What they’re saying

“I think it'll be a great help. I don't think I'm going to use it much. Only on the pitches that I know are way out of the zone.”

— Isaac Paredes (Houston Chronicle)

“I mean, it's cool to have a choice in that moment like that. That changed the at-bat, so great. But I know they're not all going to be that way. I'm honestly still trying to get to know it. I think I like it. It's cool to have that option, but still figuring it out, for sure.”

— Christian Walker, First Baseman (Houston Chronicle)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.