In a significant shift, Major League Baseball has tightened its strike zone this season, following new grading protocols for umpires. Catcher Ryan Jeffers and his teammates have noted that pitches on the edges are being called less frequently as the margin of error shrinks. This change is believed to be a precursor to the potential implementation of the Automated Ball-Strike System (ABS), prompting pitchers to adjust their strategies.

Players like Christian Vázquez and Chris Paddack have echoed these observations, indicating alterations in their pitching and catching techniques. The tightening of the strike zone has led to minor adjustments in gameplay but hasn't significantly affected Paddack's performance. As teams adapt, the upcoming return of Royce Lewis from injury could provide the Minnesota Twins with a timely boost in their lineup.

Jordan Romano's struggles continued as the Phillies barely held on to an 11-10 victory against the Miami Marlins. Despite Romano's confidence, hitting a blistering 99.8 mph on a fastball, he allowed six runs in a disastrous ninth inning, which saw the Marlins nearly complete a comeback. Charged with six runs in just two outs, Romano's ERA skyrocketed to 15.26 this season. Manager Rob Thomson indicated that the team would investigate whether Romano's mechanics are tipping pitches.

Romano, an All-Star closer with a solid track record of 105 saves and a 2.90 ERA with the Toronto Blue Jays, was signed by the Phillies to a one-year, $8.5 million contract after they declined to re-sign other valuable relievers. As he adjusts his mechanics, Romano remains optimistic about turning around his performance.