In a recent Q&A with The Athletic, M.L.B. Commissioner Rob Manfred discussed the future implementation of Automated Balls and Strikes (ABS) following successful trials during spring training. He indicated that while owners support a challenge system for calls, 2026 is the target year for broader deployment in Major League games. Umps have been receptive to ABS as it could minimize public errors, which notably impact their visibility among fans. However, the timing hinges on negotiations with the MLB Players Association, which may introduce delays.
I think that the experiment was really successful... I hope that we bring it to the big leagues in short order. It won't be in 2025. It'd be in 2026.
The problem with the challenge system is it points out when you're wrong. And I think nobody likes to be shown, in front of 48,000 people, they just missed the pitch.
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