Scherzer Skeptical as Automated Ball-Strike System Makes MLB Debut
The winds of change are sweeping through Major League Baseball, and not everyone is embracing them with open arms. The latest innovation to hit the diamond is the Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) challenge system, a technology-driven attempt to inject more precision into the age-old art of calling balls and strikes. While Commissioner Rob Manfred champions the system as a step forward, at least one prominent veteran, Max Scherzer, isn’t convinced.
The ABS challenge system, which has been rigorously tested in the minor leagues since 2021, is making its major league debut this spring. The system allows players to challenge certain ball and strike calls, which are then reviewed by the automated system to determine the accuracy of the original call. Although Scherzer may be retired by the time the system is implemented full-time in the majors (Manfred hopes to have it in place next year), he recently got a firsthand glimpse of the new technology during a spring training game.
Scherzer’s experience with the ABS challenge system during his spring training debut wasn’t exactly a smooth one. In one instance, a batter challenged a pitch called a strike, and the system overturned the call, much to Scherzer’s visible annoyance. He noted that the challenge process in the majors seemed to take longer than the 17-second average seen in the minor leagues, highlighting potential growing pains in the system’s early stages. Later, in what seemed to be a display of sarcastic skepticism, Scherzer himself challenged a pitch, only to have his challenge rejected.
Following his outing, Scherzer didn’t mince words about his reservations regarding the ABS challenge system. "I’m a little skeptical on this," he stated. "I get what we’re trying to do here, but I think major league umpires are really good. They’re really good. So what are we actually changing here? We know there are going to be strikes that are changed to balls, and balls that are changed to strikes… So we’re going to basically be even. So are we actually doing to improve the game? Are the umpires really that bad? I don’t think so."
Scherzer’s comments underscore a central debate surrounding the introduction of automated systems in baseball: Does it truly improve the game, or does it merely replace human imperfections with technological ones? He contends that major league umpires, despite occasional errors, are generally accurate and skilled at their craft. In his view, the ABS challenge system might not significantly alter the overall accuracy of ball and strike calls, potentially negating any purported advantages.
Moreover, Scherzer’s concerns extend beyond pure accuracy. He touches upon the human element of baseball, the intangible aspects that contribute to its unique appeal. "Can we just play baseball?" he implored. "We’re humans. Can we just be judged by humans? Do we really need to disrupt the game? I think humans are defined by humans." His comments suggest a fear that over-reliance on technology could erode the human connection that many fans cherish.
This spring, teams will be granted two challenges per game, with the ability to retain challenges that are successful. To ensure the integrity of the game, only the batter, pitcher, or catcher can initiate a challenge, and it must be done immediately after the call without any external assistance. The system aims to streamline the process and prevent excessive delays.
The introduction of the ABS challenge system is just the latest in a series of significant changes spearheaded by Commissioner Manfred. Last season, MLB implemented a pitch timer, larger bases, and limitations on defensive shifts, all with the stated goal of improving pace of play and increasing offensive action. While these changes have generated debate, they seem to have been well-received by fans, as attendance has increased in each of the past two years.
Whether the ABS challenge system will ultimately prove to be a positive addition to baseball remains to be seen. Its success will likely depend on several factors, including its accuracy, efficiency, and impact on the overall flow of the game. While some embrace the pursuit of technological perfection, others, like Max Scherzer, advocate for preserving the human element that has defined baseball for generations. As the game continues to evolve, the balance between tradition and innovation will undoubtedly continue to be a topic of passionate debate. The coming season will be a crucial testing ground for the ABS challenge system, providing valuable insights into its long-term viability in Major League Baseball. The eyes of players, managers, umpires, and fans alike will be focused on this technological experiment, eager to see whether it truly enhances the sport or simply adds another layer of complexity to America’s pastime.
