The Los Angeles Dodgers are experiencing early difficulties adapting to Major League Baseball’s new Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) system during spring training, raising questions about the implementation of the technology ahead of its full debut this season. Whereas the team boasts a 7-3 record in exhibition games, their performance in challenging umpire calls using the ABS system has been notably poor, sparking concern as teams prepare for a significant shift in how balls and strikes are called.
The ABS system, which utilizes technology to determine ball and strike calls, was approved for use in MLB following supportive fan polling and a decision by the Joint Competition Committee in September 2025, according to MLB.com. The system allows each team two challenges per game, retaining the challenge if successful. Only batters, pitchers, and catchers are permitted to initiate challenges, a rule designed to streamline the process.
As of March 2, 2026, Dodgers batters have lost five of their six challenges, and pitchers and catchers have been unsuccessful in six of eight attempts. This makes them the team with the fewest successful challenges and the highest inversion percentage – the rate at which umpire calls are overturned – in MLB, as reported by Dodgers Nation. Alex Call is the only Dodgers player to have won a challenge, with pitchers Alex Vesia and Wyatt Mills also securing successful challenges from the mound.
The implementation of the ABS system follows its use in Minor League Baseball since 2022. The system doesn’t operate with a fixed strike zone; instead, it dynamically adjusts based on parameters outlined by BaseballSavant. These parameters define the strike zone for each player individually.
The struggles are highlighted by a recent incident on February 26, 2026, during a spring training game against the Chicago White Sox, where an umpire’s call was overturned following an ABS challenge, as seen in an MLB.com highlight. This instance, while resulting in a successful challenge, underscores the ongoing adjustment period for players and teams.
The Dodgers’ difficulties with the ABS system are particularly noteworthy given the broader context of MLB’s adoption of the technology. While most teams are reportedly adapting to the new system during spring training, the Dodgers stand out as an exception. A recent report from Yahoo Sports echoes the concerns, highlighting the team’s poor challenge record.
The challenges with the ABS system come as MLB seeks to improve the accuracy of ball and strike calls. The system is designed to work in conjunction with umpires, who will remain on the field, but will have their decisions subject to review through the challenge process. The goal is to reduce inconsistencies and controversies surrounding umpire calls, ultimately enhancing the integrity of the game.
A YouTube analysis from a recent report further details the Dodgers’ struggles, noting they have won only 3 of their ABS challenges.
As spring training progresses, the Dodgers will have an opportunity to refine their approach to the ABS system and improve their challenge success rate. The team’s performance in this area will be closely watched as MLB prepares for the full implementation of the technology in the upcoming season. The next few weeks will be crucial for the Dodgers to adapt and avoid a competitive disadvantage when the regular season begins.
What impact will the Dodgers’ early struggles with the ABS system have on their performance during the regular season? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
