Robot Umpire Challenge System Could Be Tested in Spring Training, Potential Use in 2026 Regular Season
MLB may test robot umpires in spring training 2022. Regular-season use of robot umpires possible by 2026. ABS technology accurate to within a hundredth of an inch.
MLB has been experimenting with an automated ball-strike system (ABS) in the minor leagues since 2019, but there are still adjustments to be made to the strike zone. Commissioner Rob Manfred stated during a meeting with the Baseball Writers' Association of America that a spring training test would be necessary before bringing ABS to the big leagues. If the issues can be resolved, 2026 could be a viable year for its implementation.
Significant progress has been made in terms of technology, with the ABS being accurate to within a hundredth of an inch. However, there are still technical challenges surrounding the definition of the strike zone that need to be addressed.
In the Triple-A ballparks, ABS has been used for two consecutive seasons, but the strike zone has not been called strictly according to the rule book. MLB has been experimenting with modifications during the minor league testing phase.
Currently, the ABS determines strikes based on where the ball crosses the midpoint of the plate, 8.5 inches from the front and back. The top of the strike zone was increased to 53.5% of batter height this year, while the bottom remained at 27%.
MLB initially implemented a combination of robot umpires and a human umpire with a challenge system for the first three games of each series during the first part of the Triple-A season. However, on June 25, they switched to an all-challenge system, where a human umpire makes most of the decisions.
The challenge system has received greater support than the conventional ABS scheme. The chairman of the players' association, Tony Clark, highlighted reservations about the striking zone's uniformity and integrity under the challenge system. Wi-Fi connectivity and technical difficulties during games have also been reported.
MLB strives to eliminate any questions regarding the game's integrity or the accuracy of the calls. The competition committee, which includes players, umpires, and team representatives, will consider any proposed changes to the playing regulations. Despite opposition from some players, the committee implemented a pitch clock and defensive shift limits ahead of the 2023 season.
MLB may test robot umpires in spring training 2022
Regular-season use of robot umpires possible by 2026
ABS technology accurate to within a hundredth of an inch
Source: AP News