KBO to begin testing robotic umpires in minor leagues
The KBO is looking to take the next steps in technological advancement in baseball, as they will be testing robotic umpires in their minor leagues.
The concept of an electronic strike zone is one that divides baseball fans. On one side, there is the desire to get every call correct, and that includes balls and strikes. There is also the more traditional side, one that bemoans the loss of the human element that makes baseball so unique.
While the debate will continue, the electronic strike zone is coming to at least one league. The KBO is set to begin testing robotic umpires in their minor leagues beginning on Wednesday.
Electronic strike zone is coming to #KBO! #KBOLeague announced today that it is starting “Robot Umpire” trial run in the Futures League starting from tomorrow. Two minor league stadiums are now equipped w/ the system and 26 games are scheduled to be called electronically. pic.twitter.com/DBkeNDfXpg
— Daniel Kim 대니얼 김 (@DanielKimW) August 3, 2020
This test run will be on a limited scope, with just 26 games scheduled for the experiment. Presumably, those games will be used to collect data and see how much of a difference is made, and whether or not it is viable to bring that experiment to the KBO itself.
Related Story. Time to get rid of instant replay. light
The KBO is not the first league to test robotic umpires. There has been a discussion around Major League Baseball regarding an electronic strike zone and robotic umpires for the past few years. That experiment was even brought to the Atlantic League, and from there, the Arizona Fall League. Plans to deploy the robo-ump in several minor league parks this season were dashed by the pandemic canceling minor league ball for the year.
Technology has changed the game, although one can argue if it has been for the better or not. Defensive shifts, launch angles, and spin rates are all a direct result of crunching numbers and using the proper technology to maximize any advantages possible.
It makes sense that the baseball would look to maximize technology as well. Getting calls right has been a major focal point, especially since instant replay came into the game. That desire to have the calls be correct would naturally extend to balls and strikes as well.
dark. Next. MLB has major issue outside of COVID-19
An electronic strike zone and robotic umpires will be coming to Major League Baseball eventually. For now, the next step in their evolution is coming in the KBO.