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Twins Pitcher Shares Admission About ABS Challenge System
TL;DR
Twins pitcher Bailey Ober discussed the ABS challenge system, noting it has changed the pace of play this season. He mentioned he prefers catchers to handle most pitch challenges.
Key points
- Bailey Ober is a pitcher for the Minnesota Twins.
- The ABS challenge system is in its first season in MLB.
- Ober prefers catchers to handle pitch challenges.
Minnesota TwinsBailey Ober
Twins Pitcher Shares Admission About ABS Challenge System
The ABS challenge system has been one of the primary subjects of discussion around the MLB world. It is currently in its first season, and it seems as if most fans have appreciated it. However, how do the players feel about it? Minnesota Twins starting pitcher Bailey Ober recently shared his thoughts on the ABS challenge system during an appearance on MLB Network.
"It's been definitely a different change of pace," Ober said.
The Twins pitcher added that there have been a couple of pitches he wanted to challenge. However, he is going to let the catchers challenge most of the pitches.
The common strategy around MLB seems to be to let catchers make the decisions. We have seen some pitchers challenge calls, but for the most part catchers are making the final decision from a defensive standpoint.
Nevertheless, pitchers certainly want to challenge a number of calls. There is a strategy to the situation since each team only receives two challenges per game. Overall, Ober seems to have no problem with the challenge system.
Bailey Ober's 2026 Season With Twins
Ober is a starting pitcher who has displayed legitimate signs of potential in the past. He pitched to an ERA in the 3's in both 2023 and 2024. The 2025 campaign did not go according to plan for him, however, as the right-handed hurler turned in a 5.10 ERA across 27 starts.
He has been better in 2026, though. Ober has recorded a 4.15 ERA across his five outings to begin the season. He has recorded 24 strikeouts in his 26 innings of work on the mound as well.
Ober likely will not make an All-Star team anytime soon, but he features the ability to make a significant impact in a starting rotation. If the Twins are going to compete in 2026, they will need Ober to pitch at a respectable level. Injuries have impacted the rotation early in the campaign, so Ober's performance will be of the utmost importance.
Q&A
What is the ABS challenge system in MLB?
The ABS challenge system is a new technology implemented in MLB to allow players to challenge certain pitch calls during games.
How do players feel about the ABS challenge system in MLB?
Players, including Twins pitcher Bailey Ober, have expressed mixed feelings, with some appreciating the change while others prefer traditional methods.
Who is Bailey Ober and what did he say about the ABS challenge system?
Bailey Ober is a starting pitcher for the Minnesota Twins, and he stated that the ABS challenge system has changed the pace of play and that he prefers catchers to make most pitch challenges.
