The debate over automated balls and strikes in Major League Baseball is gaining momentum, with the league introducing an automated balls and strikes system on an experimental basis in 2019. This system has since been implemented in all Triple-A ballparks, and there are indications that it could soon come to the big leagues. MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred has suggested that the challenge form of ABS may be the starting point for such a change, based on feedback from players and the growing consensus on the issue.
Rob Manfred has been at the forefront of major changes to baseball, including measures to quicken the pace of play such as a pitch timer, larger bases, and pick-off limitations. These changes have resulted in shorter game times, with the average nine-inning game in 2023 taking two hours and 39 minutes to complete, more than 31 minutes faster than in 2021. This was the first time since 2015 that the average game duration was under three hours, and the fastest since 1985. Additionally, attendance at MLB games increased to 70.7 million in 2023, the highest since 2017, despite concerns from fans that the game was changing too much.
In recent years, as technology has improved, there has been an increased interest in automated strike zones in baseball. The discussion was highlighted on an episode of HBO’s “Real Sports” in 2017, and MLB has since taken steps to test the system in the minor leagues. The implementation at the Triple-A level and the positive feedback from players have paved the way for potential expansion to the major leagues. Despite initial opposition from some fans, the changes introduced by Commissioner Manfred have led to tangible benefits such as shorter game times and increased attendance.
While the introduction of automated balls and strikes is part of a larger trend of modernizing the game of baseball, Commissioner Manfred has faced criticism for some of his decisions. However, the positive results in terms of game time and attendance speak to the effectiveness of the changes made under his leadership. As Manfred approaches the end of his tenure as MLB Commissioner, he seems committed to continuing to push for innovation and improvement in the sport. Whether or not automated strike zones will become a permanent fixture in the majors remains to be seen, but the ongoing debate underscores the evolving nature of the game.
