Get ready, baseball fans, because technology is changing the game. Major League Baseball's Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) challenge system, tested in the minors since 2021, made its spring training debut on Thursday during the Cubs-Dodgers game.
Early in the game, Cubs pitcher Cody Poteet challenged a ball call on a pitch to Max Muncy. By tapping his hat twice, Poteet initiated a review, and the call was overturned to a strike, changing the count to 0-2. This entire process took a mere 25 seconds.
This new system gives teams two challenges per game, with successful challenges retained. Only the batter, pitcher, or catcher can initiate a challenge, and it must be done immediately after the call, without input from the dugout or other players.
Commissioner Rob Manfred has suggested that the ABS system could be fully implemented by the 2026 season. This change follows other recent adjustments, including a pitch clock, larger bases, and shift restrictions, all introduced in 2023.
Despite these significant alterations, fan engagement seems to be on the rise, with increased attendance over the past two seasons.
