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MLB Introduces Automated Ball-Strike System for 2026

9/28/2025

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Summary

Story summary

MLB will deploy the Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) Challenge System in 2026, with two challenges per game.
ABS has been tested in the minor leagues since 2019, including Triple-A and spring training.
The ABS strike zone is rectangular and height-adjustable, unlike the traditional zone.
Chicago White Sox data show negative impact from umpire calls (29th in net missed calls).

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Story summary

MLB will deploy the Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) Challenge System in 2026, with two challenges per game.
ABS has been tested in the minor leagues since 2019, including Triple-A and spring training.
The ABS strike zone is rectangular and height-adjustable, unlike the traditional zone.
Chicago White Sox data show negative impact from umpire calls (29th in net missed calls).