"Beginning in 2026, players will be able to challenge balls and strikes at the plate. The ABS challenge system existed in the minor leagues as a proof of concept of what the game would look like with such systems in place. Pacing wasn't slowed by the challenging process, which only takes a few seconds once initiated, and now challenges are heading to the majors."
"Wilson Contreras was the first Red Sox player to use ABS, challenging a strike three call in spring training on Saturday. He won the challenge. That play initiated a conversation about how exactly Boston plans to attack the ABS system this season. Alex Cora's answer was a simple one: Don't be afraid to use it. "It's here and we have to adjust," Cora said. "... The good teams are going to challenge. When is the key, and you better be successful on those.""
"The younger players in the Red Sox lineup will be familiar with the ABS system, using it in Triple-A over the last two seasons. Cora pointed out that Nate Eaton - who worked his way into Boston in the latter part of 2025 - had a 75 percent success rate challenging calls in Triple-A before his prolonged call up to Boston."
Major League Baseball will allow players to challenge balls and strikes starting in 2026 using the ABS challenge system. The ABS system was tested in the minor leagues as a proof of concept and did not slow game pacing, with challenges taking only a few seconds once initiated. Wilson Contreras became the first Red Sox to use ABS in spring training and won his challenge. Managers encourage using challenges when appropriate and emphasize timing and success rates. Younger players familiar with ABS from Triple-A may have an advantage, and some players posted strong minor-league success rates. Teams view the change as positive and potentially helpful in reducing ejections.
Read at Boston.com
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