Dismal final results show Mariners must turn 2027 spring training into ABS school

Zachary Rymer of Sodo Mojo argues that the Seattle Mariners must prioritize mastering MLB's Automated Ball-Strike System during 2027 spring training. The Mariners finished a 76-win 2026 season tied for the league's worst hitter challenge success rate at 42 percent, producing -30.0 net overturns compared to expected results.

Rymer notes that while catcher and pitcher challenges succeeded at a 59 percent clip, hitters struggled significantly. Individual hitters including Josh Naylor and Randy Arozarena struggled with calls, leading Rymer to urge the coaching staff to utilize spring training for extensive ABS experimentation.