Lidom integrates the Automated Balls and Strikes System for the winter season
The Dominican Professional Baseball League (Lidom) is preparing to raise the level of its upcoming championship with the implementation of the Automated Balls and Strikes (ABS) system. This technology, which will go into effect starting Friday, will allow for the precise review of umpire decisions at the plate, marking a milestone in the modernization of winter baseball.
Charles Sánchez, head of the technical and broadcasting area, confirmed that the project has the backing of Major League Baseball (MLB). The technological deployment includes connecting the local infrastructure with the Trackman platform, allowing information to be seamlessly integrated with mobile units and the stadiums’ giant screens.
We are working with the support of MLB, updating the software to have the system in all stadiums, integrating them into local mobile units and stadium screens.
Charles Sánchez, head of the technical and broadcasting area
System operation and scope
The ABS system will operate under a challenge model, similar to the one used in Major League Baseball. This means that the home plate umpire remains, but pitchers, catchers, and batters will have the opportunity to request an immediate review if they believe a ball and strike count was incorrect. Teams will have a limited number of opportunities to appeal, maintaining their right to challenge if the initial decision is overturned.
In this initial phase, the technology will be dedicated exclusively to the strike zone. Regarding the possible inclusion of other advanced metrics, such as exit velocity or home run distance, Sánchez clarified that this will be a gradual process.
- Exclusive implementation for ball and strike review at the plate.
- Projection of the system signal on stadium screens and television broadcasts.
- Model based on limited challenges for teams.
- Current phase: final configuration and interconnection testing.
With this innovation, Lidom seeks to ensure greater sporting justice and offer fans an enriched experience, aligning Dominican baseball with the most demanding technological standards globally.
