Stephenson's ABS challenge clinches pizza for Reds fans

Cincinnati Reds catcher Tyler Stephenson's successful ABS challenge in the ninth inning secured free pizza for fans during the team's 7-2 win over the Colorado Rockies on April 28, 2026, at Great American Ball Park. Reliever Brock Burke's 98 mph fastball to Colorado second baseman Edouard Julien, initially called a ball by umpire Carlos Torres, flipped to a strike on replay review. The call marked the Reds' 11th strikeout and triggered a promotion for a free small one-topping pizza from LaRosa’s.

The ABS challenge system allows teams to contest ball and strike calls. Entering the ninth, the Reds held 10 strikeouts and needed one more for the fan promotion. Reds broadcaster John Sadak noted on air, "Stephenson has won one (challenge) tonight, can he win pizza for those in the stands?" After confirmation, Sadak added, "The crowd ready to burst. That’s a strike! He does it for everybody! He does it for the people."

Burke followed with a 12th strikeout to end the game. The victory lifted the Reds to 19-10 atop the National League Central, while the Rockies fell to 13-17.

The teams continue their three-game series Wednesday at 6:40 p.m. ET.