Often referred to as a “robot umpire,” ABS automatically assesses whether a pitch qualifies as a ball or a strike and promptly communicates the decision to the umpire. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
SEOUL, Dec. 8 (Korea Bizwire) – Professional baseball umpires have commenced their winter training to acquaint themselves with the pitch clock and Automatic Ball-Strike System (ABS), set to debut in the upcoming 2024 season.
Often referred to as a “robot umpire,” ABS automatically assesses whether a pitch qualifies as a ball or a strike and promptly communicates the decision to the umpire. This technology has already been implemented in amateur competitions, including high school baseball, and has undergone trials in the Futures League (second division) since 2020 to enhance its functionality.
Pitch clocks impose time restrictions on pitchers between throws, encouraging a faster pace of play. The Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) examined pitch intervals across the league, scrutinizing metrics such as the average number of strike attempts and batters’ readiness to hit. The findings indicated that pitch clocks are conducive to the KBO’s game dynamics.
“The umpires engaged in their inaugural winter training at Doosan Bears Park on December 4,” the KBO disclosed on Thursday. “Their focus was on ensuring smooth game operation, adapting to communication devices like walkie-talkies and earphones, and understanding protocols in the event of errors.”
During the training, umpires also practiced situational timing and real-time communication in conjunction with the pitch clock, which imposes time constraints on pitchers.
Considering the electronic nature of these systems, the KBO conducted simulated games to preemptively address potential delays due to equipment malfunctions or miscommunication.
KBO President Heo Koo-yeon personally inspected the functioning of both the Automatic Ball-Strike System (ABS) and pitch clock, slated for introduction in the KBO league.
On a visit to Doosan Bear Park in Icheon, Gyeonggi Province, where the first winter training session of the KBO Umpires Committee is underway, Heo highlighted the four-year effort to upgrade the system in the Futures League. He noted improvements such as sustained judgment precision and consistency, as well as a reduction in the time taken for judgment results to reach umpires.
“We are ensuring uniform strike zone judgment for all pitchers and batters, promoting a fairer game,” emphasized Heo.
M. H. Lee (mhlee@koreabizwire.com)
