ESPN’s Jesse Rogers reports 13 spring training stadiums will feature an automated ball-strike (ABS) challenge system.
The robot umpires are finally here. Rogers adds that the league is testing out the system this spring in roughly 60 percent of Grapefruit and Cactus League contests for the first time after years of experimenting with ABS in the minor leagues. MLB isn’t expected to implement ABS in regular season contests until at least 2026. Each team will be given two challenges per game, and will retain successful challenges, while only the batter, catcher or pitcher can initiate a challenge. It’s an interesting wrinkle to monitor during spring training contests, but won’t have a tangible fantasy baseball impact for at least another year.