
MLB's ABS Overturns Calls, Prompting Umpire Accountability Push
OutKick's Zach Dean argues MLB's Automated Ball/Strike system (ABS), which overturns balls and strikes on request, marks a turning point in umpire accountability by delivering instant corrections in spring training. He praises the transparency and accountability it brings, critiques past umpiring errors, and contends AI could eventually reduce or replace human calls if the human element doesn’t improve, while acknowledging ongoing debates about the loss of tradition and potential crowd reactions in October.