CPBL Commissioner Tsai Chi-chang Pushes for Electronic Strike Zone, Targeting 2027 Launch

CNA reporter Xie Jingwen, Taipei, May 25. The Chinese Professional Baseball League (CPBL) has begun testing an electronic strike zone challenge system in the minor leagues this year. Commissioner Tsai Chi-chang stated that while it will not be seen at the All-Star Game, the league is using a different system than MLB and is closely monitoring testing progress, hoping to launch it in the major leagues next season.

During the pre-season, Commissioner Tsai announced that the league would test the Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) system in the minor leagues this year, with the goal of using it in major league games next season.

MLB tested the ABS system at last year's All-Star Game and officially adopted it this season. At today's CPBL All-Star Game press conference, Commissioner Tsai explained that the electronic strike zone will not be used at this year's All-Star Game, noting that while MLB uses Hawk-Eye, the CPBL uses Trackman.

Tsai stated that the league has been subsidizing teams to install Trackman systems. He noted that while horizontal accuracy is good, vertical accuracy still requires testing and adjustment. "If we roll it out and it's inaccurate, it will cause even more controversy," he said.

Tsai mentioned that he often receives messages on social media from fans asking, "Commissioner, do you think that was a strike?" or "Should the umpire go to an eye doctor?" He understands that these fans are passionate and that it is a pity when a single pitch affects the outcome of a game. He is committed to using technology to keep up with global standards and hopes to officially adopt the system in the major leagues starting next season.