Atlanta Braves catcher Drake Baldwin utilized the Automated Ball-Strike challenge system twice in the late innings of Game 2 against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium, turning borderline pitches into strikes that aided a team victory.
Bottom-Eighth Strike Call on Freddie Freeman
The sequence began in the bottom of the eighth inning with one out and no runners on base. Facing Dodgers hitter Freddie Freeman in a 2-2 count, Baldwin called for an ABS challenge on a low splitter that had initially been signaled a ball. The tracking review overturned the judgment, converting the pitch into a called strike and retiring Freeman on a strikeout.
Baldwin explained the strategy behind the decision during postgame remarks reported by mk.co.kr. “It’s a relatively new system that we’ve been sharpening the entire season,” Baldwin said. "Having two challenges left in the latter stages of the game is a major advantage, which allowed us to use it aggressively." He added that if a powerful hitter steps up in a high-pressure moment, risking a challenge is worthwhile even if the call stands, simply because the pitch location appeared dangerous.
Ninth-Inning Review Against Kyle Tucker
The Braves catcher activated the system again in the bottom of the ninth frame when Kyle Tucker stepped to the plate as the leadoff batter. Baldwin challenged an 86.7-mph low pitch near the body, which was overturned into an opening strike. Buoyed by the ruling, pitcher Didier Fuentes induced a flyout to left field two pitches later to retire Tucker.
Beyond his defensive framing and challenge management, Baldwin contributed offensively by drawing three walks during the contest. Assessing the overall team performance, he credited the collective execution of both hitters and pitchers, while highlighting the bullpen’s reliability across three consecutive games in the relief zone.
Chris Sale Starts Game 3 in Atlanta
As the series shifts, the Braves prepare to send pitcher Chris Sale to the mound for Game 3 at home. Sale had originally been considered for an appearance in Game 2 but received additional rest instead. Baldwin expressed confidence in Sale, noting that the team feels settled whenever he takes the ball at home.
Game 3 is scheduled to take place in Atlanta, where Sale will lead the rotation against the Dodgers.
Related reading
