Robot umpires are coming to MLB. Here's how they work

Data from 2024 shows that first-pitch challenges are rare at just 1.6%, but they climb significantly in high-leverage counts. For instance, 3.9% of two-strike pitches are challenged, rising to 5.2% on three-ball counts and 8.2% on full counts. Strategy also evolves as the game progresses. While only 1.9% of pitches are challenged during the first three innings, that number jumps to 3.6% in the ninth. Clearly, teams are saving their allotted challenges for the most critical moments, using the technology to gain a decisive edge when the game is on the line.

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