The Atlanta Braves got a taste of the future of umpiring this week, testing Major League Baseball’s new Automated Ball Strike Challenge System during Spring Training in North Port. The system gives teams two opportunities per game to challenge a called ball or strike and forced Braves players and coaches to begin adjusting to what feels like a new strike zone.
MLB plans to implement the challenge system league wide in 2026, making this spring an important trial run. While the technology has been tested in the minor leagues, its arrival in big league games will add a new layer of strategy and decision making that could subtly shift the rhythm of every matchup.
More Braves News:
A healthy Austin Riley might be the key for Atlanta’s offense this year, and here’s why.
Gabe Burns of the AJC discussed how prospect JR Ritchie can help the 2026 Braves.
MLB News:
Bob Melvin is returning to the A’s, this time as a special assistant to the baseball operations department.