PHOENIX, Ariz. -- Thirteen spring stadiums and over 60% of Cactus and Grapefruit League games will feature an automated ball-strike (ABS) challenge system as MLB continues to inch closer to using it during the regular season -- though that won't occur any earlier than 2026.
The league is testing out the system at the big league level for the first time after years of experimenting with ABS in the minor leagues. The rules are as follows:
• During the spring, each team will be given two challenges per game and will retain successful challenges.
• Only the batter, catcher or pitcher can initiate a challenge, which must happen immediately after the umpire's call.