By james art Mets field prospectus Drew Gilbert hopefully he will have a long career with many memorable moments, but no matter what, he will always be remembered for answering a bit of trivia: Who was the first player to ask for a challenge using the automatic check swing system?
Gilbert pitched on a 3-1 count in the second inning of an Arizona Fall League game Tuesday night. The third base umpire ruled he swung on appeal, but Gilbert tapped his helmet, triggering a review. Baseball America has a video showing the process.
On further review, ball four was ruled and Gilbert went to first base.
It’s unclear if or when the automated check swing challenge system might make it to MLB. The league is testing an automated ball-hitting system in the minors, and commissioner Rob Manfred said he thinks some version of that will be in place within four years.