{
  "id": 16814620,
  "title": "John Smoltz changes tune on Brewers star William Contreras’ ABS challenges, but there’s 1 problem",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/27/john-smoltz-changes-tune-on-brewers-star-william-contreras-abs",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-27T23:29:29.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/john-smoltz-changes-tune-brewers-232929946.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "John Smoltz, the former MLB star pitcher turned broadcaster, initially faced criticism for his comments about Brewers catcher William Contreras' approach to Absolute Ball Strike (ABS) challenges during Game 3 of the World Series against the Tampa Bay Rays. Smoltz questioned whether it was appropriate for Contreras to challenge a pitch with the score at 2-0. However, during an appearance on MLB Network’s MLB Now on Tuesday, Smoltz retracted his stance, praising Contreras' exceptional ability and calling him \"unbelievable.\" Smoltz's revised comments did not address the score issue, instead opting to emphasize Contreras' skills and positive impact on the game. Contreras has been outstanding in the World Series, excelling in ABS challenges, blocking pitches, and contributing valuable at-bats, potentially earning him the MVP title. The Brewers, leading the series 3-0, will aim to secure their World Series victory in Game 4, set for Tuesday night at 8 PM ET in Tampa Bay.",
  "summary": "Former MLB star pitcher and current broadcaster John Smoltz received some backlash for comments he made during Game 3 of the World Series between the Milwaukee Brewers and Tampa Bay Rays on Monday. Smoltz questioned Brewers catcher William Contreras’ decision to challenge a ball in a 2-0 game. Contreras has been exceptional when it comes to ABS […] The post John Smoltz changes tune on Brewers…",
  "key_points": [
    "John Smoltz initially criticized William Contreras' ABS challenge approach.",
    "Smoltz retracted his stance, praising Contreras' exceptional skills.",
    "Contreras excels in ABS challenges, contributing to Brewers' World Series lead."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}