"The Automated Ball-Strike System (ABS) is seen as a fairer, more accurate way to call when a pitch is a ball or a strike, which currently is done by the home plate human umpire. A pitch is a ball when it's thrown outside the strike zone and a strike when it's within the zone, but home plate umps are frequently the target of ire when they make bad calls. The strike zone varies for individual players based on their stance and size."
"ABS won't totally replace human umpires - it's only called in when a player challenges an umpire's call. Each team gets two challenges a game, and the only players who can request an ABS review are the pitcher, catcher, and the batter. A team doesn't lose a challenge if a player requests one and the call is overturned. MLB says the process takes 15 seconds and made sure to note that it "will certify each player's official height" to ensure an accurately determined strike zone."
Major League Baseball will implement the Automated Ball-Strike System (ABS) at home plate starting in 2026. The system uses 12 Hawk-Eye cameras and a T-Mobile private 5G network to track pitches and determine balls and strikes. ABS will be used only for player challenges; each team receives two challenges per game and only the pitcher, catcher, or batter may request a review. Teams do not lose a challenge if the call is overturned. MLB estimates ABS reviews take about 15 seconds and will certify each player's official height to set accurate strike zones. ABS was tested in minor leagues, spring training, and the 2025 All-Star Game.
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