Trendy Tech: MLB enters ABS Challenge System era slowly, before warming up circuits

MLB entered a new technological era in 2026.

The ABS Challenge System made its regular-season debut during Wednesday night’s Opening Night showcase between the New York Yankees and San Francisco Giants at Oracle Park.

Things got off to a slow start.

Only one challenge was issued.

Perhaps the players were just adjusting to the trendy tech.

On Thursday, during a near-full slate of games, 30 challenges were digitally reviewed, with 19 calls successfully overturned.

Like any new tech toy, it may take time for the challenge system to absorb into the game's fabric.

ABS Challenge System works way into MLB game

Pittsburgh Pirates center fielder Oneil Cruz, who suffered two first-inning defensive lapses, faced Freddy Peralta with one out in the top of the third inning. The Mets led, 5-2. On a 3-2 pitch, Cruz took an outside four-seam fastball.  

“Ball,” home-plate umpire Dan Iassogna called.

Mets catcher Francisco Alvarez instigated a second look, resulting in a reversal and a strikeout.

After playing a major role in allowing four first-inning runs on his two miscues, Cruz earned the ignominious honor of being the first MLB batter to fall victim to the new technology. The Mets went on to win, 11-7, at Citi Field.    

One of Thursday’s biggest ABS Challenge System calls developed during the Boston Red Sox’s 3-0 victory over the host Cincinnati Reds.

Roman Anthony, who opened the game with three singles, took a called third strike during a ninth-inning at-bat. With the Red Sox clinging to a 1-0 lead, he challenged the decision and earned a walk, leading to two insurance runs.

Thursday’s most successful challengers proved to be catchers, who went 10 of 14. Pitchers were nine of 15 and batters 0-for-1.

During spring training, players were successful 53.3 percent of the time. On Thursday, the success rate was 63.3 percent.

If those percentages continue, look for the digital challenge system trend to spike in MLB’s new era.