MLB Approves Robot Umpires for 2026 Season Under New Challenge System

Major League Baseball has officially approved the use of “robot umpires” starting in the 2026 season. The change comes via the newly endorsed Automated Ball/Strike System (ABS), which adds a challenge‑mechanism for ball and strike calls. 

What Is ABS and How It Works

• The system uses Hawk‑Eye cameras to track each pitch and determine whether it crosses the strike zone.  
• Human umpires will still make initial calls, but batters, pitchers, or catchers may challenge a ball‑or‑strike call by tapping their helmet or cap—an immediate visual signal after a disputed call.  
• Each team gets two challenges per game, and teams retain a challenge if successful. Extra challenges are granted in extra innings.  
• When a challenge is triggered, the result will be displayed via graphics on the park’s videoboards.  

Why This Is Being Implemented

• The system has been tested at multiple levels: in minor leagues since 2019, Triple‑A since 2022, in spring training, and during the 2025 All‑Star Game.  
• MLB aims to increase accuracy in pitch calling, reduce controversial calls, and limit ejections related to disagreements over ball‑strike calls.  
• Players and many teams showed support for a hybrid model rather than fully automated calls to retain the human element and maintain strategic aspects like pitch framing.  

What Remains Human

• Umpires will still make the initial call on every pitch. The robot system is used only when a challenge is made.  
• The rule does not remove strike zone variability entirely; zones will be calibrated according to batter height but not stance.  

Potential Impacts & Reactions

• Some traditionalists express concern that robot umps might reduce the human drama of the game and alter skills such as pitch framing by catchers.  
• Others believe ABS will lead to fairer outcomes and reduced fan frustration over missed calls.  
• There will likely be an adjustment period for players, umpires, and fans. Teams may adapt their strategies, especially in managing challenges in high‑leverage moments.  

What To Watch For

• How often challenges are used and whether teams run out of challenges in tight games.
• Effect on game flow: speed of the review process and how delays are managed.
• Statistical changes: compare rates of walks, strikes called, strikeouts, and how pitchers/catchers adapt.