NCAA approves automated ball-strike system for college baseball

The NCAA has approved the use of the automated ball-strike (ABS) system across all divisions of college baseball starting in the 2027 season. The decision was reached following votes by the Division I Baseball Oversight Committee and the Division II and III Playing Rules Oversight Panels.

Under the new rules, the system will be optional for teams, provided the necessary technology is available at their facilities. The ABS system allows pitchers, catchers, or batters to challenge an umpire’s call by tapping their helmet or hat, triggering a video board display of the strike zone. The process is designed to be efficient, typically resolving challenges within 10 to 15 seconds.

The move follows successful experimentation within the SEC during its 2026 tournament. The technology is intended to assist umpires in accuracy rather than replace them. This implementation follows a similar trajectory to Major League Baseball, which began minor league testing in 2019 before full integration.