As Major League Baseball (MLB) introduces the Automated Ball-Strike Challenge System (ABS) for the 2023 season, broadcast producers are adapting their strategies. This system will influence how games are viewed on television, building upon the integration of the pitch clock in prior seasons.
Impact of the ABS Challenge System on MLB Broadcasts
The ABS system, discussed at the recent MLB production meetings in New York, is expected to shift broadcasting dynamics. Although it is not anticipated to be as revolutionary as the pitch clock, it poses unique challenges for how games are presented to viewers.
Transformation of the Strike-Zone Box
One significant change involves the strike-zone box, an essential element of baseball broadcasts. Previously, this box indicated balls and strikes with filled and hollow circles. Now, it will only display pitch speed and type, complicating how viewers discern pitch outcomes.
- The box will exclusively be visible in the broadcast booth, preventing exploitation by teams.
- Viewers will still recognize when a call is questionable and may warrant a challenge.
Challenges and Their Presentation
Challenges in the ABS system must be executed immediately by the batter, pitcher, or catcher, communicated by tapping their head. Once a challenge is made, an animation of the pitch will be shown in real-time, eliminating the need for traditional replay calls. The quick resolution process, averaging 14 seconds during trials, raises questions for broadcasters.
Broadcast crews must determine how to display remaining challenges and manage the flow of information. Options include adding challenge counts to existing graphics or creating overlays similar to those used for mound visits. The innovative use of on-screen graphics could enhance viewer engagement during pivotal game moments.
Strategic Considerations and Broadcast Dynamics
Teams are already considering the strategic implications of the challenge system. Pitchers may be more likely to challenge balls that they believe to be strikes, while players who lack a strong sense of the strike zone may abstain. Broadcasters will find opportunities for greater analysis as data on challenge tendencies becomes available.
Technical Adjustments and Viewer Experience
MLB has emphasized that the strike-zone feed will only be available in the broadcast booth to prevent advantages for teams. This change means that players and fans in the stadium will not see the strike-zone box on monitors or televisions. Technical adjustments are being made by local and national broadcasters to accommodate this new setup without impacting home viewers.
Spring Training Broadcast Information
As the season approaches, teams are releasing their spring training broadcast schedules:
- Cubs: Marquee Sports Network will air 11 games; The Score will cover 10. They will both broadcast the Cubs’ first two games against the White Sox.
- White Sox: Chicago Sports Network will present nine games, with 10 airing on ESPN 1000, including the team’s opening game against the Cubs.
With the introduction of the ABS system, MLB broadcasts will continue to evolve. While it may easily blend into the game flow, these changes promise new layers of viewership engagement during critical moments.
