Overview

• MLB reduced the umpire grading buffer zone from two inches to 0.75 inches in the latest collective bargaining agreement, aiming for greater accuracy.
• Although the official strike zone remains unchanged, the tighter grading criteria have led to more borderline pitches being called balls.
• Pitchers and catchers, including Angels’ Travis d’Arnaud, have expressed frustration, citing noticeable changes in umpire behavior across the league.
• Several managers, such as Mike Shildt and Dave Roberts, claim they were not adequately informed about the change before the season began.
• MLB maintains it discussed the adjustment at the December winter meetings and has scheduled a competition-committee review to evaluate its effects.