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'Is this a strike?' ABS sparks outrage again! 60-year-old veteran's harsh criticism: 'More unfair than human umpires, th
🇰🇷 South Korea /Sports

'Is this a strike?' ABS sparks outrage again! 60-year-old veteran's harsh criticism: 'More unfair than human umpires, this isn't baseball'

From Chosun Ilbo · () Korean

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Sources not specified Context piece
  • The KBO's new Automated Ball-Strike system (ABS) is facing widespread criticism and dissatisfaction from players and coaches.
  • A specific incident during a game between SSG Landers and KT Wiz on June 5 in Incheon fueled the controversy.
  • A 60-year-old veteran coach expressed strong disapproval, calling the ABS system unfair and detrimental to the sport.

The Korea Baseball Organization's (KBO) ambitious implementation of the Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) system is encountering significant backlash, with mounting dissatisfaction voiced by players and coaches alike. The system, designed to bring consistency to umpire calls, is increasingly seen as a source of confusion and frustration.

The latest wave of discontent erupted during a game on June 5 at the Incheon SSG Landers Field between the SSG Landers and KT Wiz. While the specifics of the controversial call were not detailed, the incident reportedly intensified existing public skepticism towards the ABS.

A veteran coach, reportedly 60 years old, did not hold back his criticism. He stated that the ABS system is "more unfair than human umpires" and declared, "This is not baseball." His strong words reflect a growing sentiment that the technology, intended to improve the game, is instead undermining its integrity and traditional nature.

DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Chosun Ilbo in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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