Netflix blew the first ABS call in MLB history - and that wasn’t the only problem
New York Post • • sports
Key Points:
- The first use of the Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) challenge in MLB occurred during a Yankees vs. Giants game but was overshadowed by a live interview with Giants manager Tony Vitello, causing viewers to miss the challenge process in real-time.
- During the fourth inning, Yankees shortstop Jose Caballero initiated the ABS challenge, but the broadcast cut to Vitello’s interview, leaving fans unaware of the challenge details until later commentary.
- The ABS system transmits challenge results almost instantaneously via 5G to stadium videoboards and broadcasts, but this technology’s impact was lost on viewers due to the broadcast’s focus elsewhere.
- MLB later released a narrated clip explaining the challenge and showing the automated strike zone, providing clarity that was missing during the live broadcast.
- Netflix’s baseball broadcast debut faced criticism not only for missing the ABS moment but also for its new scorebug design and heavy use of outside personalities, which some felt detracted from the game experience.
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