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MLB teams using ABS more in postseason amid hitters’ successful challenges

Batters have been more successful on robot umpire challenges in the playoffs than during the regular season, and teams are utilizing the Automated Ball-Strike System more overall in its postseason debut.

ESPN

Published: Monday, 12 October 2026 at 3:02 PM

Key Things to Know

MLB teams are using ABS challenges more often and more successfully in the postseason than in the regular season.
Teams averaged 4.8 challenges per game across 25 postseason contests, prevailing on 59% of attempts.
Hitters improved their challenge success rate to 57%, up from 49% during the regular season.

The Story in 60 Seconds

MLB teams are challenging ball-strike calls more often and with greater success during the postseason debut of the Automated Ball-Strike System. Through 25 games in the Wild Card and Division Series, teams averaged 4.8 challenges per game with a 59% success rate, both increases over the regular season. Hitters saw their challenge win rate climb significantly from 49% to 57%.

Atlanta recorded the most total appeals, succeeding on 14 of 22 challenges across seven games. Catchers accounted for 70 challenges, winning 60%, highlighted by Braves catcher Sean Murphy going 4 for 4 and Phillies catcher J.T. Realmuto winning 5 of 6.

Read the full article on ESPN

MLB teams using ABS more in postseason amid hitters’ successful challenges

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