nytimes.com
MLB Approves Automated Ball-Strike System for 2026
Major League Baseball's competition committee approved the automated ball-strike system (ABS) for the 2026 regular season, allowing teams two challenges per game with the option of an additional challenge in extra innings.
- How does the ABS challenge system work, and what were the results of its spring training trial?
- Players (pitcher, catcher, batter) can immediately challenge a ball or strike call. In the 2025 spring training trial (288 games), an average of 4.1 challenges occurred per game, with calls overturned 52.2 percent of the time, adding an average of 13.8 seconds per game. Catchers had the highest success rate (56 percent).
- What is the primary impact of introducing the automated ball-strike system (ABS) in MLB starting in 2026?
- The ABS will allow for the review of umpires' strike zone calls, aiming to improve accuracy and reduce controversial calls. Each team starts with two challenges, which are not lost when correct. This system is designed to enhance game fairness and reduce the impact of human error on close calls.
- What are the potential long-term implications of using ABS in MLB, considering player and umpire perspectives?
- While the system aims to improve accuracy and fairness, it introduces a technological element impacting the traditional role of umpires. Player concerns remain, as seen in the non-unanimous player vote. Long-term effects may include adjustments to umpire training and game strategy, as well as shifting player behavior in response to the challenge system.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article presents a balanced view of the implementation of the automated ball-strike system (ABS) in MLB, including perspectives from the commissioner, players' union, and the committee members. While the commissioner's positive statements are included, the article also highlights the dissenting opinions and concerns raised by some players and the players' union. The inclusion of statistics from spring training testing provides objective data to support the decision, mitigating potential framing bias.
Bias by Omission
While the article provides a comprehensive overview, potential omissions could include detailed analysis of the specific concerns raised by the dissenting players' union representative, or a deeper dive into the technical aspects of the ABS system. However, given the article's length and purpose, these omissions are likely due to space constraints and are not indicative of significant bias.