Royals Lead in Automated Ball-Strike Challenges

Kansas City catcher Salvador Perez tops the league in successful challenges so far.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 2:39pm

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The Kansas City Royals have been the most effective team at utilizing the new Automated Ball-Strike System (ABS) in the opening weekend of the MLB season. Catcher Salvador Perez led all players with a perfect 4-0 record on ABS challenges.

Why it matters

The ABS system is a new technology being tested in Major League Baseball this season, aiming to improve the accuracy and consistency of ball and strike calls. How teams and players adapt to this change will be closely watched as the season progresses.

The details

Through the first few days of the season, the Royals have proven adept at navigating the new ABS rules, with Perez successfully challenging umpire calls on four separate occasions. This early success gives the Royals an advantage as they look to gain ground in a competitive American League Central division.

  • The Automated Ball-Strike System (ABS) was implemented at the start of the 2026 MLB season.
  • The data covers the opening weekend of the 2026 season, from April 1-3.

The players

Salvador Perez

The veteran catcher for the Kansas City Royals, known for his defensive skills and leadership on the field.

Kansas City Royals

A Major League Baseball team based in Kansas City, Missouri, competing in the American League Central division.

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What they’re saying

“I don't know if I like it or not, but we have to adjust and be ready for it.”

— Salvador Perez, Royals Catcher

What’s next

As the season continues, it will be interesting to see if the Royals and Perez can maintain their early success with the ABS system. Other teams will likely study the Royals' approach in order to improve their own ABS challenge strategies.

The takeaway

The Royals' early mastery of the new Automated Ball-Strike System gives them a potential edge over their divisional rivals as they look to return to the playoffs for the first time since 2015.