MLB Implements Automated Ball/Strike System, But Human Umpires Still Key

New technology aims to improve consistency, but managers say emotion and strategy remain crucial

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Major League Baseball is implementing an Automated Ball/Strike (ABS) system in 2026 that will use cameras to track pitches and determine balls and strikes, with human umpires still making the final call. Managers say the new system will benefit players with a good eye for the strike zone, but caution that strategy and emotion will still play a big role, as teams must carefully manage their challenges.

Why it matters

The ABS system is a significant technological advancement for MLB, aiming to bring more consistency to ball and strike calls. However, managers emphasize that the human element of umpiring and strategy around the new challenge system will remain crucial, as teams navigate how best to utilize the new technology.

The details

The ABS system uses cameras to track each pitch and determine if it crossed the home plate within the strike zone. Human umpires will still call every pitch, but each team will have the ability to challenge two calls per game, with additional challenges in extra innings if successful. Only the batter, pitcher or catcher can initiate a challenge, which must be done within two seconds. The graphic of the pitch and strike zone will be shown on the scoreboard and broadcast. MLB's survey found 72% of fans had a positive reaction to ABS in spring training last year.

  • The ABS system made its debut in MLB spring training games in 2025.
  • The ABS system will be implemented for regular season games starting in the 2026 season.

The players

Warren Schaeffer

Colorado Rockies manager, who has experience with the ABS system from when it was tested in Triple-A in 2022.

Joe Martinez

MLB's vice president of on-field strategy, who presented information on the ABS process.

Torey Lovullo

Arizona Diamondbacks manager, who discussed strategy around using the ABS challenge system.

Aaron Boone

New York Yankees manager, who believes the ABS system will benefit players like Aaron Judge who have a good eye for the strike zone.

Chris Young

Texas Rangers president of baseball operations, who previously worked closely with MLB umpires and believes the new technology will help them.

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What they’re saying

“I've seen challenges lost in the first inning. That's not good. Emotion is a big key to this.”

— Warren Schaeffer, Colorado Rockies manager

“You want to have one late in the game, just in case. The top of the first inning on a 0-0 fastball ... I don't want to challenge and lose. We'll most likely rely on catchers first — pitchers at times get a little emotional. Hitters can be that way sometimes, too. I think we're going to rely on the catchers and start there.”

— Torey Lovullo, Arizona Diamondbacks manager

“Our guys who are really good at controlling the zone should benefit and Aaron is certainly one of those guys who controls it real well, knows it real well.”

— Aaron Boone, New York Yankees manager

What’s next

MLB will continue to monitor the implementation of the ABS system and make any necessary adjustments during the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The introduction of the Automated Ball/Strike system in MLB represents a significant technological advancement, but managers emphasize that the human element of umpiring and strategic decision-making around the new challenge system will remain crucial to the game.