Strike Zone Challenge System Coming to MLB Spring Training 2025

Major League Baseball is introducing a groundbreaking challenge system in 2025 spring training. Commissioner Rob Manfred announced on Monday that MLB is taking the strike zone challenge system to the next level. MLB will expand its strike zone challenge system to big-league players, building on its summer trial run in the minor leagues, including Triple-A. Manfred shared the news during an appearance on YES Network’s “Yankees News & Views” show.

“There’s going to be a test at the Major League level during spring training next year,” Manfred told host Jack Curry. “We’re going to test the challenge system with the big-league players.”

Robot umps???

Not quite, but on the latest edition of ‘Yankees News & Views’ @JackCurryYES did ask MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred about the possibility of an automated balls/strikes system in the Majors.

Watch the full version on The Gotham Sports App: https://t.co/sWMqNZ0P1Q pic.twitter.com/G0N5HqCGX9

— YES Network (@YESNetwork) October 28, 2024

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MLB to Test Strike Zone Challenge System in 2025 Spring Training

The challenge system is different from the automated ball-strike system. It will serve as a compromise between full automation and the current approach. Under the challenge system, each team is offered three contested calls per game that are quickly checked against technology. Players initiate challenges with one quick helmet tap.

In the ABS system, the home plate umpire calls balls and strikes as usual, and the teams can review a limited number of balls and strikes by the Hawk-Eye system.

Back in May, Manfred said that the installment of the ABS system would likely be delayed until 2026, citing “technical issues in terms of the operation of the system.”.

Before the All-Star game in July, Commissioner Rob Manfred emphasized the importance of testing ABS technology with big-league players during spring training before implementing it. This cautious approach is wise, as the strike zone is a crucial game aspect.

Rushing into ABS implementation could have unintended consequences. By testing it in spring training, MLB and the players can ensure a smooth transition and iron out any issues. This trial run benefits both parties, allowing them to adjust to the new system and build consensus.

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