Aaron Boone expressed cautious optimism about MLB's adoption of the Automated Ball-Strike challenge system, despite his previous reservations, noting it could impact Yankees' strengths in catcher framing and strategic challenges during games.
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.
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 has approved the implementation of robot umpires for balls and strikes starting in the 2026 season, using an automated challenge system tested in minor leagues and spring training, aiming to improve accuracy and reduce ejections, while maintaining some human umpire involvement.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred discussed the future implementation of an automatic ball-strike (ABS) system, indicating a likely preference for a challenge system over full automation. This system would allow teams to challenge umpire calls using ABS technology. However, due to technical issues, it is unlikely to be ready by 2025. Manfred emphasized the importance of getting the system right and acknowledged concerns about how it might affect the role of catchers and the overall feel of the game.