Major League Baseball is set to introduce robot umpires as part of a challenge system during spring training at 13 ballparks hosting 19 teams. This move could potentially lead to regular-season use in 2026. MLB has been testing the automated ball-strike system in the minor leagues since 2019, with ongoing efforts to refine the shape of the strike zone.
An agreement for the implementation of robot umpires in the big leagues would need to be negotiated with the Major League Baseball Umpires Association, whose collective bargaining agreement expires on December 1. Commissioner Rob Manfred expressed interest in having the system in place by 2026, highlighting the need to address this issue during upcoming collective bargaining discussions.
