Why didn't Reds use ABS challenge in final at-bat vs Cubs? | Reactions
Reds reliever Brock Burke's first pitch to the Cubs' Michael Busch in the 10th inning was called a ball, and wasn't challenged by Tyler Stephenson.
Cincinnati Reds relief pitcher Brock Burke faced the Chicago Cubs ' Michael Busch with the bases loaded in the bottom of the 10th inning in a 6-6 game at Wrigley Field, and Burke's first pitch to Busch looked like it may have clipped the strike zone. Home plate umpire Tom Hanahan called it a ball, and Reds catcher Tyler Stephenson didn't challenge. Busch walked on five pitches, and the Cubs won 7-6 , spoiling Tejay Antone's first MLB appearance since April 2024 in addition to a ninth-inning rally.
Why didn't Stephenson, who entered the game at catcher in the bottom of the ninth inning after pinch-hitting for Jose Trevino earlier that inning, use the Reds' ABS challenge ? Social media reactions to the non-challenge: Game changer of a non challenge by Tyler Stephenson. pic.
twitter. com/C5BDbkUv2o — Chatterbox Sports (@CBoxSports) May 7, 2026 Bases loaded in the tenth and you don’t challenge this. What are we doing, Tyler??
#Reds pic. twitter. com/NiaViZFu1w — Chase Dunnette (@ChaseDunnette) May 7, 2026 glad Stephenson took that challenge home with him definitely didn't need to use it or anything — Evan (@Ecraven19) May 7, 2026 How did Stephenson not challenge pitch 1 of that last PA… Have a challenge, clear strike and YOU CAN NOT WALK HIM!!!