Commissioner Rob Manfred confirms usage of robot umpires for 2025 MLB Spring training
As per Commissioner Rob Manfred, the MLB will test out robot umpires at 13 ballparks during the 2025 Spring training.
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Rob Manfred (Image via People)
In a major move, Commissioner Rob Manfred on Wednesday confirmed the usage of robot umpires for 2025 MLB Spring training. Last month, the top boss of MLB had claimed that the league was also looking to implement the automated strike zone within the next four years.
As per reports from Fox Sports, the league will be testing robot umpires as part of a challenge system. This will take place at 13 ballparks which will host 19 teams during the Spring training in the upcoming year.
The automated umpiring system has been part of the minor leagues for the past five years. However, there is still some work to be done in terms of determining a proper strike zone.
As per Manfred, if this testing is successful, this challenge system could make its way into the major league by 2026. An agreement with the MLB Umpire Association will be needed for this system to be implemented though.
I would be interested in having it in 2026. We do have a collective bargaining obligation there. That’s obviously a term and condition of employment. We’re going to have to work through that issue, as well.
Rob Manfred said as per Fox Sports
MLB will test robot umpires at 13 spring training ballparks in 2025, which could lead to regular-season use in 2026 ?
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) November 21, 2024
More ➡️ https://t.co/7idC2SXAR3 pic.twitter.com/k8aMfve0XC
In recent years, several MLB umpires have come under the spotlight for their decisions behind the plate. This technology could be a massive boost to the league if the challenge system is successful during the spring training.
Rob Manfred comments on Roki Sasaki’s likely arrival in MLB
As the offseason continues, teams have started building for the future. One name that has caught the attention of many in this offseason is Roki Sasaki. Several teams are reported to be eyeing him. Commissioner Rob Manfred commented on his likely arrival in MLB recently.
In a news conference after the owners’ meeting, the 66-year-old claimed that Sasaki will extend into the 2025 international signing period. As baseball’s international signing period runs from January 15 to December 15, Sasaki will not be able to sign with any team before January 15, 2025.
It kind of looks like the way it’s going to shake out, that the signing there, just because the timing, will happen in the new pool period.
Rob Manfred said as per Associated Press
Rob Manfred said that he expects Roki Sasaki to sign with a club as part of the 2025 international signing class, meaning he can't sign before January 15th. pic.twitter.com/wqOK3Ai5ix
— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) November 20, 2024
The Los Angeles Dodgers and the San Diego Padres are so far reported to be early favorites to sign him. The Japanese connection these two teams have could become a factor in Sasaki choosing his next club after leaving the Pacific League’s Chiba Lotte Marines.
Recently, Sasaki’s agent, Joel Wolfe blasted some MLB executives for floating rumors about him agreeing a term with the Dodgers. He would label this as “poor sportsmanship” and strongly denied any such claims. As of now, there has not been a specific agreement of Sasaki with any MLB team.
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Vinay Dave
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