Pressing Questions: ABS, the “Grey Zone” and Imperfection

ST LOUIS, MISSOURI - APRIL 26: Rob Refsnyder #30 of the Seattle Mariners hits a game-winning solo home run against the St. Louis Cardinals in the ninth inning at Busch Stadium on April 26, 2026 in St Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images) | Getty Images This discussion comes off the heels of the Mariners win on Sonday night over the Cardinals.

The game was noteworthy for Rob Refsnyder’s big pinch-hit home run in the top of the ninth, and the manner in which it came about. Refsnyder watched a pitch about three inches off the plate called for strike 2, and then one even further outside – this one about six inches off the zone. Refsnyder challenged the call, got his second chance and put the next pitch into the bleachers.

The challenge was the furthest miss on a strikeout call so far this season. Refsnyder’s challenge was far from the only use of the ABS system in this game, though. The teams went a combined 8-for-9 on ABS challenges, a rough night for Triple-A call-up John Bacon.

ABS has been a hot topic this season like instant-replay review was when it rolled out in 2014. It’s sparked BIG FEELINGS from seemingly everyone – players, umpires, managers, media , Lookout Landing commenters, etc. The writers met to discuss the impact of ABS this season and a proposed “grey zone,” described below.