In the opening game of the 2026 Cactus League, held at Salt River Fields in Scottsdale, Arizona Diamondbacks catcher Gabriel Moreno stood out alongside third baseman Nolan Arenado, who hit his first home run with the team. Moreno’s effective use of the new at-bat challenge system drew attention as he engaged in multiple pitch reviews against the Colorado Rockies, demonstrating his deep understanding of strike zone dynamics.
Introduction of Full-Season At-Bat Challenge System
Major League Baseball expanded the use of the Automated Ball-Strike Challenge System (ABS) from spring training to the entire 2026 season. This system allows catchers, pitchers, and batters to contest questionable pitch calls during at-bats by signaling to the umpire. Each team receives two challenges per game and retains successful challenges, while losing one if a challenge fails. The goal of ABS is to ensure accuracy on ball and strike calls by reviewing in-game footage promptly.
Gabriel Moreno’s Effective Use of ABS in First Game
Moreno put the ABS system to good use during the opener, challenging four pitches behind the plate. He successfully overturned three initial calls from home plate umpire Alex MacKay that were originally deemed balls but were shown on replay to fall inside or on the edge of the strike zone. On the fourth attempt, related to a failed caught-stealing play against Rockies outfielder Jake McCarthy, the call was upheld as a ball. Moreno’s keen judgment helped validate calls that could ultimately benefit his pitchers and the team.
Moreno’s Defensive Skills Enhance Team’s Performance
Though only one game into spring training, Moreno’s performance revealed his consistent skill in reading pitches and framing them effectively. He has previously earned a Gold Glove for his defensive prowess and continues to play a vital role in managing the pitching staff. The implementation of the at-bat challenge system provides Moreno with an additional tool to influence game outcomes positively by supporting his pitchers and maintaining accurate strike zone calls.
The Broader Significance for the Diamondbacks’ Season
With Moreno’s adept use of the challenge system, the Arizona Diamondbacks showcase a promising approach to leveraging technology to improve in-game decisions. This emphasis on precision behind the plate may translate into tighter control of at-bats throughout the season, contributing to overall team success. As the 2026 season progresses, Moreno’s expanded role in both defense and pitch review could prove critical to the Diamondbacks’ competitiveness in the National League West.
BREAKING: Major League Baseball will use the Automated Ball-Strike Challenge System (ABS) during the entire 2026 season
ABS CHALLENGE RULES:
– Each team will get two challenges and can keep them if they're successful
– Challenges can only be initiated by a pitcher, catcher, or… pic.twitter.com/xHkRIbHrRx
— MLB (@MLB) September 23, 2025
