MLB testing robot umpires at spring training
MLB to Test Robot Umpires During Spring Training
Major League Baseball is set to introduce robot umpires as part of a challenge system during spring training at 13 ballparks hosting 19 teams. This move could potentially lead to the regular-season use of robot umpires as early as 2026.
MLB has been experimenting with the automated ball-strike system in the minor leagues since 2019, focusing on refining the shape of the strike zone to ensure accuracy and consistency.
Before implementing robot umpires in the big leagues, an agreement must be reached with the Major League Baseball Umpires Association, whose collective bargaining agreement expires on December 1.
Commissioner Rob Manfred expressed his interest in incorporating robot umpires by 2026 but acknowledged the need to address collective bargaining obligations. The effectiveness of the spring training experiment will play a crucial role in determining the future of robot umpires in MLB.
The current automated ball-strike system calls strikes based on where the ball crosses the midpoint of the plate, with specific dimensions set for the strike zone. MLB has been testing various modifications to the system during minor league games to enhance accuracy.
In Triple-A ballparks, a hybrid system was used initially, with a combination of robot umpires and human umpires with a challenge system. However, MLB later transitioned to an all-challenge system, where a human umpire makes most decisions, similar to the video review process in the major leagues.
Moving forward, MLB plans to conduct a spring training test of the automated ball-strike system to familiarize major league players with the challenge system. This test will provide valuable exposure to the technology and its impact on the game.
