The automated ball-strike challenge system is coming to spring training

Are we taking technology too far?

Major League Baseball is taking a significant step towards modernizing the game by introducing the automated ball-strike (ABS) challenge system during spring training in 2025. This new system, which utilizes Hawk-Eye technology, will allow players to challenge ball and strike calls made by the home plate umpire. This marks the first time MLB has used the ABS system with big league players, signaling a potential shift in how umpires may officiate games in the future.

MLB will use the ABS challenge system in 13 of the 23 Cactus and Grapefruit League ballparks, including Camelback Ranch, home of the White Sox and Los Angeles Dodgers. It will appear in about 60% of spring training games, allowing all teams to experience the new technology either at their home field or during an away contest.

Under the system, teams will have two challenges per game, which a batter, catcher, or pitcher can use to dispute any ball or strike call without help from the dugout. If a challenge is successful, the team retains its challenge; if unsuccessful, the team loses that challenge. MLB has been testing the ABS system in the minor leagues over the past few years, and they are now ready to see how it works in a big league setting.

One concern often expressed regarding the new system is the time it could potentially add to a game. Over the past several years, the league has worked hard to reduce game time with technology like the pitch clock and limiting mound visits. Each challenge added about only 17 seconds on average throughout the MiLB trials. So, the ABS system should not extend a game in any significant way.

The introduction of the ABS challenge system is a significant development for baseball, and it could eventually lead to the full implementation of its use over the next few seasons. However, there are no plans for that right now; it is strictly a spring training experiment. The ABS challenge system could potentially improve the accuracy of ball and strike calls, making the game fairer for both players and fans. During the MiLB testing, calls challenged by players were overturned 51% of the time. While some fans may resist the change, using technology in sports is becoming increasingly common and appears here to stay whether we like it or not.

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