What is ABS? Here’s how MLB’s Automated Ball-Strike system works

Major League Baseball is going high tech.

MLB is introducing an Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) system this season, which gives players the right to challenge calls at the plate.

Here’s how it works.

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What is the Automated Ball-Strike system (ABS)?

The ABS system has been highly anticipated for a few years as it was tested throughout the minor leagues. It tracks each pitch location and determines whether the umpire’s call is correct based on each batter’s strike zone.

When a player challenges a call, an animated graphic showing the result will be transmitted to both the stadium and on-air broadcast showing the result within seconds. The call will either stand or be overturned and the game will continue.

With the system being so new, it’s hard to predict how aggressive teams will be with challenges. The Toronto Blue Jays, for example, have said they won’t let pitchers make challenges, but they will give more leeway for catchers and batters.

How does a player challenge a call?

Players signal a challenge by tapping their helmet immediately following an umpire’s call. Only batters, catchers and pitchers can make challenges. Even managers cannot make a challenge.

In addition, umpire’s can disallow a challenge if they see the player has been tipped off by anyone on the field or in the dugout.

How many challenges do teams have?

Teams have two challenges per game with additional challenges if the game goes to extra innings. Teams keep their challenges if they are successful.

Has the ABS system been tested?

The ABS system has been tested in the minor leagues and Major League spring training since 2022. It was also previewed at last year’s All Star game.

ABS was first used in a regular season MLB game on Wednesday in the New York Yankees’ 7-0 thrashing of the San Francisco Giants.

Who made the first ABS challenge in the regular season?

Yankees shortstop Jose Caballero became the first player in MLB history to challenge a call with the ABS system. Caballero wanted another look at a strike, but the call was confirmed and New York lost one of their two challenges.