Major League Baseball introduced the Automatic Ball-Strike (ABS) Challenge System for the 2026 season. The system, powered by T-Mobile, uses Hawkeye cameras and a private 5G network to track pitches and make instant calls.
How it Works
The ABS system is designed to be accurate and fast, with a priority on not disrupting the game experience. Teams start with two challenges each and lose one for every unsuccessful attempt. The system has been tested in the minor leagues since 2022 and has received positive feedback from fans and players.
Brewers’ Cy Young candidate Jacob Misiorowski thinks the system gives an advantage to hitters, but is a fan of the technology. Phillies legends Ryan Howard and Chase Utley agree that they would have benefitted from having the ABS system during their playing careers.
Future Developments
Major League Baseball is currently testing a check swing system in the minors, using the same Hawkeye tracking system. The league is also looking for other ways to use technology to improve the game.
Original reporting: All Sports Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
