Part 3/8:
Unlike a fully robotic umpire calling every pitch, the ABS operates with a hybrid system where both human and technology play a role. Only the batter, the pitcher, or the catcher can initiate a challenge, eliminating the possibility for dugout interference and maintaining the integrity of in-game decisions. This unique rule empowers individual players and emphasizes responsibility in calling for reviews.
Once a challenge is made, the results will be displayed almost instantly using the Hawkeye technology, showing whether the call was correct or needed to be reversed. If previous data is any indication, the average length of games in minor leagues with challenges was only about 17 seconds longer than games without challenges. Therefore, critics fearing longer game times may be reassured.