Introduction of Automated Ball and Strike System (ABS)
Major League Baseball (MLB) has announced the introduction of a technological advancement starting from the 2026 season. Teams will be granted two electronic challenge reviews per game for disputed calls.
The System Explained
This new system, known as the Automated Ball and Strike System (ABS), will not replace umpires but rather provide teams with the opportunity to review close calls. The ABS will consist of 12 high-speed cameras tracking the ball’s trajectory, with an error margin close to 0.6 millimeters.
This system is similar to the Hawk-Eye technology used in tennis, where several tournaments have already eliminated human umpires and entrusted all ball-strike decisions to electronic systems.
Background and Testing
Rob Manfred, MLB Commissioner, highlighted the league’s commitment to continuous improvement. The ABS was first tested in Minor Leagues in 2019 and later experimented with MLB teams during the 2025 Spring Training.
During the 2025 Spring Training, players challenged 2.6% of called pitches, with a reversal rate of 52.2%. This rate was higher than the 50% in Triple-A (Minor Leagues) this year, as per the MLB communication.
Implementation Details
Starting the 2026 MLB season, each team can request up to two robotic reviews per game. Only the pitcher, catcher, or batter directly involved in the play can initiate a review by touching their helmet or cap.
The animated pitch track will be displayed on the stadium’s video board and television broadcasts, courtesy of T-Mobile. Each review is expected to last around 13.8 seconds, minimally impacting the game’s pace.
Reception and Future
The preference for the challenge system over instant technology for every pitch was a significant factor in choosing this system, according to Manfred.
Tests in Minor Leagues revealed a clear preference for the challenge system among fans, players, managers, and staff due to the desire to maintain a human element in umpiring.
MLB reported that 72% of fans surveyed during the 2025 Spring Training expressed a positive impact from the ABS, with 69% agreeing to further technological advancements.
Current MLB Standings
As the 2025 regular season nears its end, preparations are underway for the playoffs. The qualified teams are: Toronto Blue Jays, Philadelphia Phillies, Milwaukee Brewers, Chicago Cubs, Los Angeles Dodgers, and San Diego Padres.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the new system being introduced in MLB? The Automated Ball and Strike System (ABS) allows teams two electronic challenge reviews per game for disputed calls.
- How does the ABS work? The system uses 12 high-speed cameras to track the ball’s trajectory, with an error margin close to 0.6 millimeters.
- When will this system be implemented? The ABS will be introduced in the 2026 MLB season.
- Who can request a review? Only the pitcher, catcher, or batter directly involved in the play can initiate a review.
- How will reviews be displayed? Animated pitch tracks will be shown on stadium video boards and television broadcasts.
- What was the reception of this system? 72% of fans surveyed during the 2025 Spring Training expressed a positive impact from the ABS, with 69% agreeing to further technological advancements.
