Miami, Florida. The 2026 World Baseball Classic semi-final between the Dominican Republic and the United States, which ended with a 2-1 victory for the United States, left a bittersweet taste and an intense debate about the umpiring decisions.
The match, held at loanDepot Park, was marked by controversy. The umpire’s decision to call a third strike on Dominican shortstop Geraldo Perdomo, against closer Mason Miller, sealed the victory for the United States and their place in the final.
The play generated immediate reactions and criticism from figures and baseball analysts, who questioned the validity of the pitch and another previous decision in an at-bat by Juan Soto.
The strike calls to Juan Soto and Geraldo Perdomo show why baseball is moving towards the automated ball-strike system.
Former Major League Baseball general manager Jim Bowden also spoke out on social media, arguing that the umpire’s decisions reinforce the need to implement the ABS system.
Derek Jeter, Hall of Famer, lamented that a game of such magnitude was decided by a controversial decision.
It is very likely that the next World Classic will include the ABS system challenge. It’s a shame that a game ends like that.
CC Sabathia, also a baseball immortal, expressed his support for the automated ball-strike system, highlighting that these types of situations demonstrate the need for technological tools to support umpires.
The criticism intensified after the hit to Perdomo, with the tying run on third base and the possibility of extending the game for the Dominican Republic.
Despite the controversy, the match was recognized as one of the most exciting of the tournament, pitting two teams with great talent against each other. The dramatic ending will continue to generate debate about the use of technology in refereeing.
