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Modesto Roadsters implement ABS challenge system
ABS system
The Roadsters’ new Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) system, just like in use in the MLB, will determine balls and strikes in real time.

The Modesto Roadsters, in its first season as an expansion team in the independent Pioneer Baseball League, announced Friday that an Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) system will be fully implemented at Modern Woodmen Field for each pitch through the remainder of the season.

Powered by TrackMan, Modesto’s new ABS system will determine balls and strikes in real time. Players and fans can view a live strike zone, pitch location, velocity and additional data displayed on the ballpark video board throughout the game. It is technology similar to that used in Major League Baseball that has allowed challenges on balls and strikes called by home plate umpires.

"One of our goals has been to make a Roadsters game unlike anything else in the region," said Modesto Roadsters owner Dave Heller in a press release. "Whether it's the great giveaways, fantastic promotions, seriously upgraded food, or now the technology on the field, we're always looking for ways to elevate the fan experience. ABS brings another layer of excitement by allowing fans to follow every pitch with the same information available to players, coaches and scouts."

The Pioneer Baseball League has tested emerging baseball technology in recent years. The PBL partnered with TackMan in 2023 for data collection technology and was even one of the first professional leagues to trial ABS challenges in 2024, which set the table for MLB’s full adoption of the system ahead of the 2026 season.

“The Pioneer League prides itself on its efforts to elevate the fan experience and improve play on the field,” said Pioneer League President Mike Shapiro. “Modesto’s employment of Full ABS is a great example of how the PBL is trying to make the game better for fans, players and umpires alike.”

The ABS system was officially implemented by the Roadsters immediately on Friday night. The club entered the day on an 11-game winning streak and with a 20-1 record in the second half of the PBL season, atop the standings with a five-game lead over second-place Long Beach Coast. Overall, the Roadsters have achieved a 47-22 record in its inaugural season.

The club’s full schedule, promotional calendar and ticketing information can be found at www.ModestoRoadsters.com.