How MLB's new ABS challenge system works

The robot umpires are here.

Well, only kind of. MLB has a new ABS challenge system, and its implementation begins in Spring Training before being used throughout the regular season and postseason, too.

The goal is to get ball and strike calls correct.

With pitchers throwing harder and with more movement than ever before, umpiring behind the plate has never been trickier.

Umpires are statistically as good as they've ever been, but it's hard not to have a miss every once in a while.

This system helps alleviate the worry of a crucial miss in a big spot.

Here's how it works.

What is ABS in baseball?

ABS stands for automated ball strike, and it's the new challenge system in MLB for the 2026 season.

It was previously tested out in the minor leagues, beginning in 2022, so many current MLB players will have had experience with it.

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How many ABS challenges does a team get?

Each team starts the game with two challenges.

The challenge can be initiated by the batter, pitcher or catcher. It has to happen immediately after the home plate umpire's call.

What happens in an ABS challenge?

The pitch is compared to an animated, predetermined graphic of the strike zone.

If the pitch touches any part of the zone, it's a strike.

If a team's challenge is successful, it retains the same number of challenges it had before the attempted challenge.

If it's unsuccessful, that challenge is lost.

How does a team do an ABS challenge?

The player that wants to challenge -- either the pitcher, catcher or hitter -- taps his helmet or hat.

That signals to the umpire that a challenge has been made, usually within a second or two after the home plate umpire's call.

Maybe most fascinatingly, challenge statistics will be kept for each individual player. We'll get to see who is the best at challenging.

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