MLB Approves Automated Ball-Strike Robot Challenges for 2026 Season

Major League Baseball's competition committee has unanimously approved the use of the Automated Ball/Strike System (ABS) for the 2026 season, introducing robot umpires to assist with ball and strike calls. The system, which uses Hawk-Eye cameras, allows human umpires to make initial calls while enabling pitchers, catchers, or batters to challenge calls by tapping their helmet or cap; teams are granted two challenges per game, with additional challenges in extra innings if previous ones are used successfully. ABS determines strikes based on where pitches cross the midpoint of home plate, with strike zone dimensions adjusted for each batter's height. This challenge-based approach aims to reduce controversial calls and player ejections, as over 60% of ejections recently have stemmed from disagreements over balls and strikes. The technology has been tested extensively in minor leagues, Triple-A, spring training, and the 2025 All-Star Game, showing roughly half of challenges are successful. MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred emphasized the goal of deploying the system in a way acceptable to players, preserving traditional umpiring roles while enhancing fairness and accuracy.