What is the Automated Ball-Strike Challenge System in MLB?

The Automated Ball-Strike (A.B.S.) Challenge System, nicknamed the 'robot ump,' uses specialized cameras to make objective calls on balls and strikes.

How many challenges do teams get with the robot ump system?

Teams start each game with two challenges. They can use them to review an umpire's ball or strike call.

Who can challenge a call under the new MLB system?

Only the pitcher, catcher, or batter can initiate a challenge by tapping their head, signaling a disagreement with the umpire's call.

Home / Sports / Robot Umps Take the Field in MLB Season

Robot Umps Take the Field in MLB Season

22 Mar

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Summary

Automated Ball-Strike system uses cameras to judge pitches.
Teams get two challenges per game to question umpire calls.
Players can challenge calls directly by tapping their head.

In a significant shift for baseball, the sport is set to implement the Automated Ball-Strike (A.B.S.) Challenge System starting with the upcoming season. This new technology, colloquially known as the 'robot ump,' will empower players with the ability to challenge an umpire's ball or strike call for the first time.

Specialized cameras installed in every ballpark will track the precise location of pitches, providing an objective measure for calls. Each team begins the season with two challenges per game. A successful challenge allows the team to retain it, but two unsuccessful challenges result in the loss of further review opportunities.

The pitcher, catcher, or batter must initiate a challenge immediately by tapping their head. A graphic displayed on the outfield screen will then reveal the correct call, ensuring greater accuracy and potentially mitigating controversial decisions that have long been a point of contention.

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