The robot umpire is nearing its debut in Major League Baseball (MLB), sparking varying opinions among players. New York Yankees’ closer Devin Williams expressed skepticism about the league’s direction, stating, “They’re going to do whatever they want,” regardless of player input.
This year, MLB tested an automatic ball and strike (ABS) system in spring training and plans to feature it during next week’s All-Star Game, according to an ESPN report. The All-Star Game will serve as a trial run for the robot umpire, which MLB aims to introduce permanently next season. Unlike the current manual calling system or a fully automated strike zone, players in the All-Star Games will have a limited number of challenge opportunities, allowed only to pitchers, batters, or catchers by tapping their helmet or hat, without help from their teammates in the dugout or on the field.
Williams sees both pros and cons to the ABS. He explained a scenario where a close pitch might be called a strike by the ABS but perceived as a ball due to poor framing by the catcher, which frustrates batters and deviates from traditional gameplay. He referenced a recent game between the and Brewers displayed on the Yankees’ clubhouse TV as an example where such calls influenced the outcome, including a controversial walk by Shohei Ohtani.
Despite his concerns, Williams advocates for considering players’ opinions before implementing new rules but doubts that the league truly values their input, comparing it to past changes like the pitch clock introduced in 2023, which he disliked. He pointed out that the MLB competition committee—made up of six owners, four players, and one judge—ultimately holds most of the decision-making power. Williams lamented that those making the rules “obviously don’t play the game.”
When asked about the MLB Players Association’s role, he responded that players have votes but are outweighed by the league’s majority, suggesting that decisions are made irrespective of player concerns. Before heading out to warm up, he reiterated the players’ lack of influence, saying they must simply “do whatever they say.”
Deesha Thosar covers Major League Baseball for Fox Sports. She is a Queens resident and the daughter of an Indian immigrant. Follow her on Twitter @deeshathosar.
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Fan Take: The introduction of robot umpires marks a significant shift in baseball that could reshape how the game is played and perceived. While technology promises greater accuracy, it risks alienating players and fans who cherish the human element and tradition of the sport.
