Robot Umpires Coming to Major League Baseball in 2026
NEW YORK — Major League Baseball (MLB) is set to introduce robot umpires in 2026, after the league’s competition committee approved the Automated Ball/Strike System (ABS). While human umpires will still make calls, players will have the option to challenge two calls per game, with extra appeals allowed in extra innings. This challenge system requires a pitcher, catcher, or batter to signal their intent by tapping their helmet or cap.
Yankees outfielder Austin Slater, part of the competition committee, noted that while technology brings improvements, it also comes with a margin for error. “Umpires get about 94% of pitches right,” he said, referencing stats from UmpScorecards. There’s a belief that using this system may reduce the number of ejections, which were often related to disputed balls and strikes.
Yankees manager Aaron Boone acknowledged the change is inevitable, expressing some skepticism but hoping for positive outcomes. Guardians manager Stephen Vogt warned that players will need to adapt to this new reality, stating, “It’s going to change the game forever.”
The ABS, which has been tested in minor leagues since 2019, uses Hawk-Eye cameras to ensure accuracy. MLB implemented the challenge system in Triple-A earlier this year. Players have expressed mixed feelings about the change. Phillies manager Rob Thomson shared his excitement, indicating that many players enjoyed the new system.
In addition to overseeing the implementation of ABS, MLB officials have experimented with various strike zone definitions. The current system delineates strikes based on the midpoint of the plate and evolving player preferences influenced the design of the challenge system.
This development marks MLB’s first significant rule change since last year’s adjustments that included a pitch clock and larger bases. The introduction of robot umpires aims to enhance the game; however, it will maintain the traditional skills of catchers, who play a vital role in managing pitches.
Overall, this move towards technology emphasizes the need for accuracy while acknowledging the value of human input in the game. As players gear up for this change, MLB is taking steps to ensure a smooth transition.
