Maybe, but it was close enough the ump called it a strike. The crappy ump who sucked all game.
When faced with an inconsistent crappy ump in that situation, I would prefer to swing and take my chances than hope the crappy ump makes the right call.
I understand the approach you advocate. I think most baseball players get it. It is very easy for me to also see where Duke Ellis was coming from. The ball was pretty far outside and curved back in toward the plate late but did not get there. So it goes.