
Robot umpires are coming to MLB. Here's how they work
So what is the MLB strike zone?
MLB has refined the shape of the ABS strike zone through several iterations. It began with a 19-inch width in 2022 before narrowing it to 17 inches, which aligns perfectly with the width of home plate. This reduction caused a notable uptick in base on balls while maintaining stable strikeout rates. The vertical height, originally set at 51% of a batter’s total height, was raised to 53.5% in 2024 following feedback from pitchers. The bottom of the zone has remained at 27% since 2022, effectively ignoring a player’s personal stance.





