NCAA Approves Automated Ball-Strike Challenges for College Baseball
#CollegeBaseball #ABSSystemNCAA approved the automated ball-strike system for all college baseball divisions next season, allowing challenges when available. Also permitted: 18-inch bases, a 30-second timer in Division I, limited pitcher disengagements, and a three-batter minimum. read more
Left-handed hitters dominate MLB thanks to ABS
#MLB #ABSSystemLeft-handed hitters dominate MLB in 2026, with the top eight OPS leaders all lefties. The automated ball-strike system neutralizes past umpire biases on outside pitches, boosting lefties’ wRC+ to 108 versus righties’ 95, their best since 1946. read more
MLBs automated strike zone shows early data disparities
#MLB #ABSSystemMLB's new ABS challenge system shows huge team disparities, with the Twins challenging most and Red Sox least. Walks are up 1%, but scoring hasn't increased due to low batting average (.241) and depressed BABIP. Catchers' framing value has dropped 20%. read more