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Umpires Embrace Automation Amid Strike Zone Controversy

11/5/2025

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Summary

Story summary

In Cleveland, Ohio, MLB umpires have shifted toward embracing automated strike zones.
Dale Scott, a former Major League Baseball umpire, said many umpires now use the technology to avoid blame for mistakes shown on TV.
He noted the on-screen strike zone is inaccurate, yet it has become a standard viewers trust.
Scott compared this evolution to early skepticism of instant replay and said perfection remains unattainable for umpires and players.

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Story summary

In Cleveland, Ohio, MLB umpires have shifted toward embracing automated strike zones.
Dale Scott, a former Major League Baseball umpire, said many umpires now use the technology to avoid blame for mistakes shown on TV.
He noted the on-screen strike zone is inaccurate, yet it has become a standard viewers trust.
Scott compared this evolution to early skepticism of instant replay and said perfection remains unattainable for umpires and players.