All articles tagged with #automated strike zone
Opening Day introduces MLB's Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) challenges, where players can challenge balls and strikes using per-player strike zones measured for each batter; each team starts with two challenges and gains new ones in extras, with successful challenges retaining the option and failures costing one. Cubs and White Sox kickoff the rollout Thursday, with other games streaming on NBC Chicago.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred announced that the league might test an automated strike zone during the 2025 spring training, with potential implementation in 2026. The league has tested two versions of the system in the minor leagues, favoring a challenge-based approach. However, technical issues and player feedback need to be addressed, and the change would require approval from both the competition committee and the umpires' union.
The Philadelphia Phillies are on a historic winning streak, boasting a 29-6 record in their last 35 games. MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred discussed the potential implementation of a challenge-based automated strike zone, highlighting concerns about its impact on the game. Rookie pitcher Paul Skenes delivered a solid performance for the Pirates despite not having his best stuff, but the team still lost to the Giants due to bullpen issues.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred discusses the potential implementation of an automated strike zone, favoring a challenge system over full-time use due to concerns about unintended consequences, such as the impact on catchers' framing skills and overall game dynamics. Players have shown a preference for the challenge system, and the league is still gathering information and considering various factors before making a final decision.
The Seattle Mariners secured a win against the Washington Nationals with the help of a controversial strike call by home plate umpire Mark Carlson. With the Nationals rallying in the ninth inning, Carlson called a two-strike pitch well outside the strike zone as a strike, leading to the Mariners' victory. Even the Mariners' announcer expressed surprise at the call, highlighting the need for an automated strike zone system.