Marlins Embrace MLB's New Automated Ball-Strike Challenge System

The innovative technology aims to improve accuracy while maintaining the human element of the game.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 7:44am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a baseball game, with sharp, overlapping planes of color representing the dynamic action on the field.The ABS Challenge System adds a new layer of strategy and excitement to the national pastime, as teams like the Marlins embrace the technology to gain a competitive edge.Jupiter Today

The Miami Marlins' recent spring training game against the St. Louis Cardinals showcased the potential of Major League Baseball's newest initiative: the Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) Challenge System. This system allows players to challenge key calls made by home-plate umpires, ensuring accuracy while maintaining the human element of the game. The Marlins have embraced the new technology, with their catchers showcasing their skills in successfully challenging calls during spring training.

Why it matters

The ABS Challenge System is a game-changer for MLB, as it aims to improve the accuracy of ball and strike calls while still preserving the human element of the game. The Marlins' early success with the system highlights their commitment to adapting to new technologies and their potential to gain a competitive edge in the upcoming season.

The details

In the pivotal seventh-inning moment, Marlins pitcher Josh White faced Cardinals right fielder Joshua Baez. With the count at 1-2, White threw a slider that appeared to be a strike, but Baez disagreed and challenged the call. The video board confirmed that the pitch was just a fraction of an inch outside the strike zone. On the next pitch, Baez challenged again, and the call was reversed, resulting in a walk. The Cardinals ultimately won the game in extra innings.

  • The Marlins' spring training game against the St. Louis Cardinals showcased the ABS Challenge System on April 10, 2026.
  • The ABS Challenge System will be implemented in the upcoming 2026 MLB season.

The players

Josh White

A Marlins pitcher who faced a key challenge in the seventh inning of the spring training game.

Joshua Baez

A Cardinals right fielder who successfully challenged a call during the game.

Clayton McCullough

The Marlins manager who praised the ABS Challenge System, stating that the game's pivotal moment was 'probably MLB's dream scenario'.

Agustin Ramirez

A Marlins catcher who has been successful in his challenges during spring training.

Liam Hicks

A Marlins catcher who has been successful in his challenges during spring training.

Joe Mack

A Marlins catcher who has been successful in his challenges during spring training.

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What they’re saying

“That was probably MLB's dream scenario right there.”

— Clayton McCullough, Marlins Manager

What’s next

The ABS Challenge System will be implemented in the upcoming 2026 MLB season, and the Marlins will continue to practice and refine their use of the technology during the remainder of spring training.

The takeaway

The Marlins' early success with the ABS Challenge System demonstrates their commitment to embracing new technologies and their potential to gain a competitive edge in the upcoming season. The system's ability to improve accuracy while maintaining the human element of the game is a game-changer for MLB, and the Marlins are poised to be at the forefront of this innovation.