Mariners Catcher Cal Raleigh Plans to Test New ABS System

Raleigh aims to crack the code of the Automated Balls and Strikes system in Spring Training

Feb. 21, 2026 at 6:51pm

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As Major League Baseball introduces the new Automated Balls and Strikes (ABS) system for the 2026 season, Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh plans to aggressively challenge the system during Spring Training to better understand its accuracy, especially on the edges of the strike zone. Raleigh, who set records for home runs by a catcher and switch-hitter in 2025, is motivated to lead the Mariners back to the playoffs after falling just short last season.

Why it matters

The ABS system is a significant change for baseball, as it aims to take the human element out of ball and strike calls. Raleigh's approach to testing the system could provide valuable insights as MLB considers expanding its use in the future.

The details

Raleigh issued the Mariners' first ABS challenge just seven pitches into their first Spring Training game, and he says he plans to continue being aggressive in testing the system's accuracy, even on borderline calls. This hands-on approach should help Raleigh better understand the ABS system and potentially gain an advantage both at the plate and behind it.

  • The 2026 MLB season will feature the limited use of the Automated Balls and Strikes (ABS) system.
  • Raleigh issued the Mariners' first ABS challenge in their first Spring Training game of 2026.

The players

Cal Raleigh

A catcher for the Seattle Mariners who set records for home runs by a catcher and switch-hitter in 2025.

Aaron Judge

A player for the New York Yankees who won the AL MVP award in 2025, beating out Raleigh who finished second.

Colt Emerson

A player who is trying to make the Mariners' roster for the 2026 season.

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What they’re saying

“Expect to see Cal Raleigh continue to be aggressive with ABS challenges behind the plate this spring. Even if they aren't the closest calls, he says his key to learning the new system will be in volume.”

— Daniel Kramer, MLB.com analyst (MLB.com)

“We're all hurt from last year. But you take that and use it as fuel... We want to be a perennial team where making the playoffs is just an afterthought in a way. We want to be there every year. We want to be competing for the World Series, winning the World Series, and that's the expectation we want to have.”

— Cal Raleigh (yardbarker.com)

What’s next

The judge in Colt Emerson's case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow him on the Mariners' roster for the 2026 season.

The takeaway

Raleigh's proactive approach to testing the new ABS system could provide valuable insights for MLB as they consider expanding its use, while his determination to lead the Mariners back to the playoffs after last year's disappointment shows his drive to be a perennial contender.