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MLB5 min read•

MLB to Use ABS Challenge System Starting in 2026

Major League Baseball will use the Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) Challenge System starting with the 2026 season. The system allows teams to challenge ball-strike calls from the home-plate umpire; the call is then reviewed using the league’s ball-tracking technology (powered by T-Mobile).

Rules

  • Each team receives two challenges per game, with additional challenges granted in extra innings.
  • Teams get unlimited challenges as long as they’re correct; if a team loses two challenges, it receives no more unless the game goes beyond nine innings.
  • The system will be used at every MLB ballpark except the Mexico City Series, Field of Dreams game, and Little League Classic.

    • Debut

    ABS will debut on Opening Night when the Giants host the Yankees on March 25, 2026—the same game that will stream live on Netflix.

    What It Means for AthX

    ABS may marginally change how often borderline calls go for or against pitchers and hitters over a long season. Dynamic pricing already reflects outcomes, playing time, and performance; any effect is likely small and already priced in over time. No change to how you build or trade on AthX.

    Browse the marketplace to see how player values move on AthX.

    Sources: MLB.com, USA Today. Fact-checked February 20, 2026.

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