Cincinnati Reds Triumph Amid Absurd Umpiring Blunders

The Cincinnati Reds celebrated a 10-8 win over the Chicago Cubs, savoring the success amid a game marred by questionable umpiring decisions. The Cubs faced difficulties, particularly in their bullpen, struggling to contain the Reds’ momentum in the later innings.

Home plate umpire Bill Miller became a focal point after going 0-for-8 on automated ball-strike system (ABS) challenges. Each challenged call faced overturning, with Chicago winning five and the Reds taking three.

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A notable early incident saw Miller call a pitch from Reds pitcher Rhett Lowder a ball. However, an ABS challenge confirmed the pitch skimmed the strike zone’s edge, prompting the first overturned judgment of the day.

Miller’s night continued along a vexing path, as seven additional calls were overturned. Only two initial calls were judged strikes, showing evident inconsistency. Cubs catcher Carson Kelly challenged four pitches successfully, while Reds star Jose Trevino effectively challenged two. The remainder involved Reds player Sal Stewart and Cubs outfielder Seiya Suzuki.

Despite leading MLB with 88 successful challenges in 124 tries, Reds catcher Tyler Stephenson abstained from challenging on Friday.

Miller’s history with ABS disputes is well-documented, notably in prior Reds games serving as crew chief. An incident last month involved Reds infielder Edwin Arroyo and Miller, impeding a ground ball play that extended the inning.

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A hot-mic moment captured Reds reliever Caleb Ferguson directing strong language at Miller, incensed by the situation. Ferguson later offered an apology during a media session, expressing regret.

Data from TapToChallenge.com underscored Miller’s 0-for-8 record as the poorest umpiring performance since ABS was introduced for the 2026 season.

Miller’s 70 overturned calls position him ninth among MLB umpires. Leaders in the category include Hunter Wendelstedt, Dan Iassogna, Malachi Moore, Lance Barrett, and Manny Gonzalez.