‘It’s an art’: MLB catchers seek balance between framing, robot umps

But what about those fans - likely very many - who want to see more objectivity from officials in all sports?

“They can write a letter or something,” Trevino responded wryly. “But, I mean, for guys that love doing it, the guys that enjoy catching and love pitch framing and any kind of defensive stuff, it means a lot. It means a lot to us.”

In reality, though, the automated strike zone is most likely coming, one way or another. And many catchers, including Texas Rangers tandem Jonah Heim and Austin Hedges - two of the best pitch framers in the league who’ve combined to save 22 runs this season - seem ready to welcome the appeal system.

“I think the best starting point would be the appeal system,” said All-Star Heim, the rare catcher who’s elite at framing but also a good hitter. “Just from hearing guys that come up in the minor leagues, they like that kind of system. It still has a human element. You just gotta be more strategic with it, I guess.”

Hedges offered his own unique perspective, as a veteran with his fourth organization after being traded to Texas at the deadline.

“I like the challenge system. I don’t think the fully automated system is a good idea,” the 31-year-old said. “Having the umpire back there still brings a lot of value. There’s certain things about baseball that you need a decision to be made versus where a ball is crossing electronically. But if you have the ability to challenge it and it can happen quickly, I think that’ll still keep the value of a catcher (who) can receive the ball.”