MLB's robot umpire test expands to Triple-A, introducing a 45-degree threshold for determining checked swings. The system, which allows batters, catchers, or pitchers to challenge ball/strike calls with two team-wide challenges, aims to reduce human error. A 3% drop in strikeout rates was observed during last year's minors testing, signaling potential shifts in game dynamics.

The update includes second base repositioning to sit entirely within the infield diamond, shrinking gaps between bases by 9 inches. This change, paired with stricter limits on pitcher disengagements (cut from two to one per plate appearance) and batter timeouts, seeks to speed up gameplay. The pitch clock will reset for PitchCom malfunctions, with automatic balls issued for violations, addressing a 12-minute increase in average game time since 2024.

Starting pitchers may re-enter games at select minor leagues after being removed, provided they threw at least 25 pitches in their exit inning. This flexibility aims to improve player health and workload management. Umpires in Triple-A will enforce the new swing criteria, aligning with rules tested in the Florida State League since 2020 and the Arizona Fall League.

These experiments precede MLB's March 25 launch of the Automated Ball-Strike Challenge System. While not expected to reach majors immediately, officials hope minor league adjustments will refine technology before broader implementation. The focus remains on balancing accuracy, pace, and player development across the league.