A controversial missed strike call in Game 3 of the World Series on Daulton Varsho, a shorter hitter, highlights ongoing issues with umpire accuracy and the potential impact of the upcoming Automated Ball-Strike System (ABS) which aims to address such discrepancies based on hitter height.
Major League Baseball has approved the use of robot umpires with an automated ball/strike challenge system starting in 2026, allowing teams to challenge calls and potentially reduce ejections, while human umpires will still call pitches with digital reviews displayed on screens.
Major League Baseball will introduce robot umpires using the Automated Ball-Strike System (ABS) in 2026, which uses Hawk-Eye cameras and 5G technology to improve the accuracy of calls at home plate. The system will be used for challenge reviews rather than replacing human umpires entirely, with players able to challenge calls and the system providing quick, precise decisions. The move aims to enhance fairness and accuracy, with the impact on the game and player reactions yet to be seen.
Starting in 2026, MLB players will be able to challenge balls and strikes calls using an automated system called ABS, after successful testing in minor leagues and spring training, aiming to improve call accuracy while maintaining game pace.
Major League Baseball's Competition Committee has approved the implementation of the Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) system for the 2026 season, marking a significant shift in the game by allowing challenges to umpire calls via helmet taps, with the system already tested in minor leagues and spring training.
MLB has approved the use of the Automated Ball Strike (ABS) system, marking the beginning of robot umpires in official games starting in 2026, after successful testing and approval by the Joint Competition Committee.
Cal Raleigh, a standout catcher for the Mariners, is enjoying a stellar year with a recent All-Star nomination and a Home Run Derby win, and will showcase his skills in the upcoming All-Star Game where the new Automated Ball Strike (ABS) system will be tested, highlighting his adept challenge skills and potential for increased value with the technology's broader adoption.
MLB will implement the automated ball-strike (ABS) challenge system at the upcoming All-Star Game in Atlanta, allowing players to challenge calls using Hawk-Eye technology, with positive fan feedback and potential for league-wide adoption next season.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred discusses the potential implementation of an automated strike zone, favoring a challenge system over full-time use due to concerns about unintended consequences, such as the impact on catchers' framing skills and overall game dynamics. Players have shown a preference for the challenge system, and the league is still gathering information and considering various factors before making a final decision.