Not only does Phillies’ brand-new acquisition boast a stellar postseason resume, but he also fits in perfectly for the team that has lost Zach Wheeler to a season-ending injury. Walker Buehler is making a return to the major leagues on Friday. He will take the mound for the Phillies for the first game of a three-game set against the Kansas City Royals. That’s plenty to look forward to, yet there’s more to why Buehler had been eagerly waiting to be back.

Apparently, he hated the automated ball-strike system used in the minors, which commissioner Rob Manfred has been pushing toward the big leagues too. Backing up his frustration with the ABS system, he stated, “I think it’s inaccurate. In most of the stadiums, it’s not even actually on the plate. It shifts certain directions in certain ballparks.” Further, he added, “The human element is a huge part of this game. I think starting pitchers that have pitched for a long time deserve certain parts of the plate that other guys don’t get.”

According to Phillies’ star, the robo umps don’t behave the same in every ballpark because the strike zone may be calibrated or interpreted differently depending on the venue.

“I think the punishment for challenging something that’s clearly a strike is not big enough. I could kind of go on. The ABS system in general is a very good idea. I don’t think we have any idea where to put it on the plate.” He added. Buehler is doubtful about ABS’s implementation. He believes it’s not figured out well in terms of how to function it accurately in the ballparks.

Moreover, he’s not the only one to feel so. Max Scherzer from the Blue Jays also expressed his disappointment with the robo umps earlier this year. “I get what we’re trying to do here, but I think major league umpires are really good.” He said. Similarly, Manny Machado from the San Diego Padres is also not in board with the ABS system. For him, it’s the human element which matters more, that’s why he’s also not a fan.

Its, quite suprising, as the ABS system debuted in the Midsummer Classic this year and it was an instant success. Before that, it was used in spring training, and many thought it was great, including Dodgers manager Dave Roberts. For now, it’s still uncertain when MLB will bring it into major league regular games. So until then, Buehler can make the most of human umpires.

Buehler is happy to be with the Phillies

Buehler had recorded a 7-7 record with a 5.45 ERA in 23 appearances for the Boston Red Sox this season. However, the Red Sox parted ways with the right-hander last month. He made one start in Triple-A to prepare him for his Friday debut against the Kansas City Royals. In his prep outing, Buehler threw 78 pitches, 47 strikes, across three innings.

By the end, he had given up two runs (one earned) and five hits along with five strikeouts and three walks. He will now be joining the Phillies, who have just swept the Mets in the four-game series. Buehler’s recent remarks reflected his excitement to be in Philadelphia.

“Obviously, it didn’t work out in Boston, and I’m super excited to be here,” he said. He also mentioned that it’s a place he’s always had a high respect for. Truly, the Phillies are one of the hottest teams in the league right now.

They are also closing in on the Milwaukee Brewers (89-58), who are holding a two-game lead for the top seed in the NL playoffs. Buehler believes he can help the team notch its first World Series title since 2008. After all, he also helped the Los Angeles Dodgers for the World Series titles in 2020 and 2024.