A computerized system that calls balls and strikes is being tested during Major League Baseball spring training exhibition games starting Thursday after four years of experiments in the minor leagues.

What to know about robot umpires, automated ball-strike testing, challenges at 2025 MLB spring training Cactus League, Grapefruit League games.

Though this hybrid umpire system won’t make its way to regular season major league games in 2025, player and fan reactions during this crucial trial period could determine whether or not it becomes a regular staple in games.