If you are a fan of Major League Baseball, you have undoubtedly seen the new Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) challenge system in place this season.
ABS is an advanced technology strike zone system that uses electronic tracking to precisely measure the strike zone for every batter. Furthermore, it also tracks each pitch to determine exactly where the ball crosses the plate.
The new system was implemented in the majors after several trial runs in the minor leagues, and is now on its way to the college game.
ABS challenge system reportedly coming to college baseball
On Wednesday afternoon, Baseball America's Jacob Rudner reported that the NCAA Rules Subcommittee has approved the usage of the ABS challenge system in college baseball. According to Rudner, the system can be used in any game where the necessary technology is available, which includes Trackman tracking technology. At this point, most Power 4 stadiums have those capabilities available.
Rudner notes that the system is slated to be implemented for the 2027 season. However, the move still requires approval from the Baseball Oversight Committee. No exact timeline is given for that final stage of approval, but it's fair to assume that will come in the next few months.
NEWS: The NCAA Rules Subcommittee has approved the usage of ABS, sources tell @BaseballAmerica. It can be used in any game where the tech is available (includes Trackman). This still requires Baseball Oversight Committee approval but is expected to be implemented in 2027.
— Jacob Rudner (@JacobRudner) July 15, 2026
Indiana baseball games to feature ABS challenge system
Along with being used in professional baseball, ABS has also already been used in the college game. The SEC implemented the ABS system for its conference tournament this past spring in Hoover. The move was well-received, and paved the way for the rest of the spot.
“The introduction of this challenge system at the SEC Tournament reflects our continued commitment to innovation,” said SEC commissioner Greg Sankey. “This addition represents a continued step forward for our game, aligns more closely with the professional level and supports the development of our student-athletes as they prepare for success at the next level.”
4 Hoosiers to begin professional baseball careers after MLB Draft, free agent deals
The move doesn't necessarily come as a surprise, as more and more momentum has been building toward the change over the last few months. It seems to have been a success at the MLB level, as players and fans now have a more accurate depiction of the strike zone.
Specifics of how many challenges each team will have have yet to be announced. In the pros, each team gets two challenges per game. If they win a challenge, they retain both challenges. Players who can challenge ball/strike calls are limited to the pitcher, batter, or catcher. It will be interesting to see if the NCAA implements that same structure or deviates at all.
So when attending Indiana baseball games at Bart Kaufman Field in Bloomington next season, things may be a little different. Jeff Mercer and the Hoosiers will be looking to get back on track, as their 9-21 record in conference play was tied for 13th in the Big Ten. Thus, Indiana failed to qualify for the Big Ten Tournament. Hoosier fans are hoping for a better campaign next season.
Add us as a preferred source on Google