Rates & Barrels: A show about Baseball Baseball's ABS System Is Working!
Mar 30, 2026
A lively recap of ABS drama from opening weekend, with overturned calls, crowd reactions and an early ejection. Discussion of Nico Hoerner’s six-year extension and how it fits the Cubs’ defensive core. Debate on limiting challenges by count and how ABS might shift strike totals. Breakdown of ‘A’ and ‘B’ bullpen roles and tips for making tough lineup and roster decisions.
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Episode notes
Manager Ejected Over Timing Of ABS Challenge
- Derek Shelton was ejected arguing timing of an ABS challenge because Josh Bell had already started to first base before the helmet tap.
- Ejections show subjectivity remains over how quickly crews signal a challenge despite machine calls.
Cubs Pay Big For Defense And Contact With Hoerner Deal
- The Cubs signed Nico Hoerner to six years/$141M to lock down defense and contact skills as part of a young core.
- Hoerner's bat projects only ~3% above average due to low power (36 HR in ~3,000 PA), making defense the primary value.
Prioritize ABS Challenges By Count And Context
- Do prioritize ABS challenges by count and game context: early prioritize 1-1 counts; late prioritize potential strikeouts or walks.
- Factor remaining challenges and catcher trust when deciding aggression.