MLB Teams Prepare for Robot Umpires and World Baseball Classic

Spring training kicks off with focus on new automated ball-strike system and upcoming global tournament

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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As spring training begins, MLB teams are preparing for the introduction of the Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) system, which will allow teams to challenge pitch calls by umpires. Additionally, players are gearing up for the World Baseball Classic, with rosters featuring 306 players under major and minor league contracts, including 78 All-Stars. The upcoming season may also be impacted by labor negotiations, as the collective bargaining agreement expires in December.

Why it matters

The ABS system is a significant change to the game, as it aims to reduce disputes over ball and strike calls. Teams will need to strategize on how to best utilize the new challenge system. The World Baseball Classic also provides an opportunity for international talent to showcase their skills on a global stage. With a potential labor confrontation looming, the upcoming season could be shaped by negotiations between players and owners.

The details

The ABS system was tested in 13 spring training ballparks last year, and teams won 52.2% of 1,182 challenges, which averaged 13.8 seconds. Major League Baseball's 11-man competition committee voted in September to approve regular-season use for 2026. Each player will be measured for their strike zone during spring training, and the data will be verified by the Southwest Research Institute. Most teams appear reticent about allowing pitchers to challenge, preferring catchers and managers to make the decisions.

  • Spring training begins on Tuesday, February 10, 2026.
  • The World Baseball Classic will be played from March 5-17, 2026 in Houston, Miami, San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Tokyo.
  • The current collective bargaining agreement expires at 11:59 p.m. EST on December 1, 2026.

The players

Blake Butera

A 33-year-old new manager, the youngest in 54 years.

A.J. Hinch

The Detroit manager, a former catcher, who expects the first month of the ABS system to be the hardest.

Aaron Judge

The U.S. captain for the World Baseball Classic, who is excited to be a part of the tournament.

Shohei Ohtani

The Japanese player who struck out Mike Trout to end Japan's 3-2 win in the 2023 World Baseball Classic final, but will be limited to hitting in the 2026 tournament.

Tony Vitello

The new San Francisco Giants manager, who made the rare move directly from college coach to major league manager.

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What they’re saying

“I'm really excited about it. I've obviously seen it in Triple-A for a while. You always hear the chatter from the dugout getting on the umpires. It's like: Hey, challenge it. Let's see what you got.”

— Blake Butera, Washington Nationals manager (WBAL)

“The first month will probably be the hardest month. Maybe spring will help a little bit. But in the spring, you can try and fail and it's not that penal. You do that in San Diego or Arizona or a home opener against St. Louis, and it's a little more costly. We'll have a running tab on who's good at it and who is not. Because there might be some position players who get their optionality taken away from the challenged call.”

— A.J. Hinch, Detroit Tigers manager (WBAL)

“It was something I really wanted to be a part of. I think this team is going to be on a mission.”

— Aaron Judge (WBAL)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.