Hour 2: The use of ABS
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The Michael Kay Show dives deep into the impact of the Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) system in Major League Baseball, praising its ability to correct bad calls and engage fans in real time. Michael Kay highlights the Yankees' 10-for-11 success with challenges, applauding the system for holding umpires to a higher standard and exposing those with consistent errors. He acknowledges the emotional toll on umpires like Mike Estabrook and C.B. Buckner, noting the psychological burden of being publicly scrutinized on center-field boards. Kay also explores the strategic implications of ABS, including potential 'reverse framing' by catchers to trick opponents into wasting challenges on clear strikes—a concept introduced by Yankees' catching guru Tanner Swanson. The segment transitions into a sharp critique of Jets head coach Aaron Glenn’s hyperbolic claim that Geno Smith will lead the team to the 'promised land,' calling it delusional and damaging to fan trust. Kay argues that while optimism is valid, misleading messaging undermines credibility, especially after Glenn’s failed picks like Justin Fields. The episode closes with a reminder of the show’s ongoing coverage of New York sports, including the NFL Draft and Knicks’ struggles with player utilization.
ABS has improved call accuracy and fan engagement, with Yankees going 10-for-11 on challenges early in the season.
Umpires face increased pressure and public scrutiny under ABS, risking mental strain and long-term job security for inconsistent performers.
The concept of 'reverse framing'—where catchers move a strike out of the zone to trick opponents into challenging—could become a strategic weapon in baseball.
Coaches must balance optimism with honesty; Aaron Glenn’s 'promised land' rhetoric is seen as misleading and damaging to fan trust.
The First Amendment does not protect employees from being fired for offensive speech in a private workplace setting, as seen in the Jaden Ivey situation with the Bulls.
…and 2 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Opening: Yankees' ABS Success & Mets' Early Season Potential
Michael Kay opens with a promotional segment for Shop Apotheke, then transitions into a preview of the Yankees’ 2-1 loss to the Mariners and the Mets’ 4-2 win over the Cardinals. He emphasizes the Mets’ strong early schedule and their opportunity to start the season with momentum.
David Stearns' Brilliant Signing of Clay Holmes
Kay praises David Stearns for signing Clay Holmes as a starter, calling it a $13 million per year bargain for a reliable number three starter. He highlights Holmes’ clutch performance in Game 161 and compares it to similar moves by the Padres and Royals with Seth Lugo.
The Rise and Impact of Automated Ball-Strike (ABS)
“You're going to expose the guys that are bad. You're going to expose the guys that are bad. I'm sorry Angel Hernandez is no longer working because, I mean, he would have 20 challenges a game if that maybe more.”
Strategic Implications: Reverse Framing and Player Challenges
“Think about that. This is how advanced baseball is right now. They're thinking about reverse framing.”
Aaron Glenn’s 'Promised Land' Rhetoric and Jets’ Coaching Crisis
“You cannot be serious. And if you're serious, then that's even more serious because that means you're delusional.”
“You cannot be serious. And if you're serious, then that's even more serious because that means you're delusional.”
“You're going to expose the guys that are bad. You're going to expose the guys that are bad. I'm sorry Angel Hernandez is no longer working because, I mean, he would have 20 challenges a game if that maybe more.”
“You're going to expose the guys that are bad. You're going to expose the guys that are bad.”
Host
Michael Kay
person
Yankees
other
Aaron Glenn
person
Mets
other
Clay Holmes
person
Geno Smith
person
Mike Estabrook
person
C.B. Buckner
person
David Stearns
person
Knicks
other
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