Catchers are overturning 64% of ABS challenges while hitters are only at 42% — why is the gap that large and does it change how you think about pitch framing

After the first week of the regular season the numbers are pretty striking. Catchers are succeeding on 64% of challenges while hitters are at 42% and pitchers are barely using it at all at 40% on just five attempts.

The gap makes sense when you think about vantage point — catchers see the pitch come in from directly behind the plate. But what I find interesting is that the best framers seem to also be the best challengers. Salvador Perez went 4 for 4 in the first few days. Patrick Bailey had a 71% overturn rate in spring training.

It makes you wonder if pitch framing and challenge instinct are actually the same skill. The catcher who knows how to receive a borderline pitch probably also knows exactly when to tap his helmet.

Also interesting — the Astros went 0 for 6 and the Cardinals went 0 for 4 in the first week. Meanwhile the Yankees went 10 for 11. That gap in team strategy seems like it could become a real competitive advantage over 162 games.

Does the catcher gap change how you think about the value of elite pitch framers going forward?