The ABS challenge system represents a compromise between human judgment and full automation, potentially paving the way for future advancements in umpiring.

Currently, the ABS defines strikes based on the ball's midpoint crossing the plate, with the top of the strike zone set at 53.5% of a batter's height.

In 2024, Major League Baseball (MLB) implemented an all-challenge system in Triple-A, transitioning from an initial phase where robot umpires were used exclusively.

Under this new system, human umpires will continue to call balls and strikes, while teams are allowed a limited number of challenges to appeal on-field decisions.

Teams retain their challenges if successful, mirroring the video review rules used in the major leagues.

The automated ball-strike (ABS) technology, which utilizes Hawk-Eye cameras to monitor pitch locations relative to the strike zone, has been in use in Triple-A since 2022.

This technology enhances accuracy in decision-making, although it has faced scrutiny as not every pitch that is a strike appears so visually to players and fans.

Last year, MLB reported a 47% success rate for teams using the challenge system in Triple-A games.

Each team in Triple-A is permitted two to three challenges per game, depending on the league, with successful challenges allowing teams to retain their attempts.

Looking ahead, MLB plans to test robot umpires through the ABS challenge system during Spring training in 2025, with an eye toward implementation in the 2026 regular season.

Commissioner Rob Manfred emphasized that player experience will be crucial in determining the timeline for the system's implementation.

The transition from robot umpires being a radical idea to a likely reality reflects the growing acceptance of technology in the game, as many current players have prior experience with the system.