sports

Robot Umpire Approved for SEC Tournament Challenges

The NCAA Baseball Rules Committee approved the Southeastern Conference's request to implement an automated ball-and-strike challenge system for the 2026 SEC Tournament. This experimental system mirrors the technology used in Major League Baseball.

Teams will be allowed three challenges per game to review the automated strike zone. If a challenge is successful, the team retains the ability to challenge again, but a failed challenge results in the loss of that opportunity. The system compares pitch locations to an electronic strike zone, displaying results on the videoboard. mchezo.co.za

Commissioner Greg Sankey noted the move supports student-athletes preparing for the professional level. The tournament is scheduled for May 19-24 in Hoover, Alabama, and similar protocols could apply to other conferences.