"The previous rule changes that have been adopted by the Joint Competition Committee have had staying power and created momentum for the game. We used the same process with ABS that started with listening to fans, conducting extensive testing at the minor league level, and trying at every step to make the game better,"
"The strong preference from players for the Challenge format over using the technology to call every pitch was a key factor in determining the system we are announcing today. I commend the Joint Competition Committee for striking the right balance of preserving the integral role of the umpire in the game with the ability to correct a missed call in a high-leverage situation, all while preserving the pace and rhythm of the game."
MLB will implement the Automated Ball Strike (ABS) Challenge System full-time beginning with the 2026 regular season after a vote by the joint competition committee. The ABS Challenge System will also be in effect for Spring Training games in 2026 and for all postseason games starting in 2026. Commissioner Rob Manfred supported the move, having initially suggested ABS would wait until the 2027 CBA before reversing course and proposing next-season implementation. The chosen format uses a player-preferred challenge approach rather than automated calls, aiming to preserve the umpire's role, correct missed high-leverage calls, and maintain game pace.
Read at Dodger Blue
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