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MLB's ABS challenge system arose in part because of players' concerns about umpire gambling


Published on 2025-03-05 19:25:32 - MSN
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  • A future Hall of Fame pitcher admits the incursion of legalized gambling in baseball was a factor in the players' decision to encourage the automatic ball-strike system currently being tested in spring training games.

The MLB's new Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) challenge system was developed in response to concerns about umpire gambling, among other issues. This system allows teams to challenge certain calls made by umpires, aiming to reduce human error and potential bias in games. The initiative was spurred by a notable incident involving umpire Pat Hoberg, who was removed from the field during the 2024 season due to an ongoing investigation into gambling. This event, coupled with the broader push for technological integration in sports for accuracy, has led MLB to implement this system, which was tested in the minor leagues before its introduction at the major league level. The system not only addresses the integrity of the game but also aims to enhance the overall fairness and precision of umpiring decisions.

Read the Full MSN Article at:
[ https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/mlb/mlb-s-abs-challenge-system-arose-in-part-because-of-players-concerns-about-umpire-gambling/ar-AA1AjKMn ]