### MLB to Test Automated Ball-Strike System in Spring Training

Major League Baseball (MLB) Commissioner Rob Manfred has revealed plans to evaluate the automated ball-strike system (ABS) through a spring training experiment. Manfred emphasized that both player and club feedback will be critical in determining the system's future.

"The assessment will consider inputs from both players and clubs," Manfred stated. "We'll need to balance both perspectives to make an informed decision."

Triple-A ballparks have already utilized ABS for two consecutive seasons, but there is reluctance to fully implement the strike zone as defined by the rule book. Modifications have been tested at the minor league level, focusing on how ABS calls strikes. Currently, the ABS relies on where the ball crosses the midpoint of the plate, which is 8.5 inches from both the front and back. This year, the top of the strike zone was raised to 53.5% of the batter's height, up from 51%, while the bottom remained at 27%.

In the Triple-A season, a hybrid approach was initially used: the first three games of each series relied solely on the robotic system, while the final three incorporated a human umpire with a challenge system. From June 25, MLB switched to a full challenge system, where human umpires make almost all decisions. During the season's latter half, teams were allotted three challenges in the Pacific Coast League and two in the International League. Teams retain their challenge if successful, akin to the video review rules in major league games.

Manfred also disclosed plans for the upcoming spring training tests. "We will conduct a spring training ABS trial that gives all major league players a meaningful opportunity to experience the challenge system," he said. "While it won't be present in every ballpark, our plan ensures that every team gets significant exposure."

Overall, the evaluation of the ABS will be a crucial step in determining its viability for future use in MLB games.