Altuve’s ABS Challenge Loss Highlights System’s Cruelty

In the third inning, Altuve faced A’s pitcher Jeffrey Springs with two outs and a runner on third. Springs’ 3‑2 delivery was called a ball four, but a swift challenge by catcher Shea Langeliers overturned the call after the ABS system recorded the pitch at 0.00323 inches inside the strike zone, the closest ever confirmed strike. The Astros’ 2017 AL MVP was then called out, ending the inning on a strike and costing Houston a potential run.

Despite the setback, Altuve has started his 16th season strong, posting a 1.071 OPS and two home runs in his first nine games. The A’s capitalized on the moment, striking out seven times and winning 11‑4.