This is what KT Wiz coach Lee Kang-chul said over the recent complaint about the Automatic Ball-Strike System (ABS). At first glance, it is hard to understand. It is fair, but what is the problem? However, it is understandable to some extent when he hears Hwang’s supplementary explanation. “It seems like the strike zone (even though we are hitters) is moving,” Hwang said. “How can a ball that cannot be hit be a strike?” The result (judgment) is fair to all, but it is hard to say “right.”메이저놀이터
For pitchers, if they face the same batter and the strike zone is different, they will be confused. It is the same reason why players complain that each stadium has different zones. From a batter’s point of view, they cannot hit a ball that is so wrong that a catcher cannot catch. Veteran players have their own strike zone that they have been building for more than 10 years, and there is a considerable sense of separation between the new zones. This is why players say it is hard to sympathize.
However, players are not denying the ABS. KT manager Lee Kang-chul also said, “ABS is fair (to all players),” while adding, “It can also reduce the duration of a game as there is no dispute over judgment.” Hwang Jae-gyun also agreed, saying, “ABS system is absolutely necessary.”
However, he stressed the need for ABS to be “complemented.” Essentially, questions are being raised as to whether a ball on a course that batters cannot hit is truly a “strike.” Hwang Jae-gyun also raised his voice, saying, “Shouldn’t a strike be hit by a batter? The standard needs to be changed.”
Establishing and applying standards requires a lot of trial and error and adaptation time. The players’ opinions are that just as Pitchclock is piloting this season with the aim of official introduction next year, ABS would have taken time to introduce it officially later through trial and error and supplementation. He also pointed out that KBO operated hastily without sufficient communication with the field.
Hwang Jae-gyun said, “If it’s a change that fans want, the players should follow it of course,” but added, “If it’s a system that affects the players’ performance, I hope KBO will fully consult with the players before preparing and implementing it.” Manager Lee Kang-chul also said, “I regret what it would have been like if it had been supplemented after the pilot operation.”
The Korea Professional Baseball Players Association also plans to conclude its stance on ABS as soon as possible, saying, “Players are making requests to deal with it at the level of the players’ association.” The ABS controversy will likely continue for a while.