MLB The Show 26: Master the ABS Challenge System with These Pro Tips

EtHANtuRNEr454

Core Mechanics & Rules

• Availability: ABS is active in offline modes like Road to the Show (RTTS) and Franchise. It is not available in Diamond Dynasty or online Head-to-Head, where umpire calls are automatically perfect.
• Initiating a Challenge: Press Down on the D-Pad immediately after the umpire’s call. You’ll see an animation of the batter, pitcher, or catcher tapping their helmet or cap to signal the challenge.
• Challenge Allotment: Each team starts with two challenges per game.
• Retention: If your challenge is successful (the call is overturned), you keep it.
• Loss: If the call stands, you lose one challenge.
• Extra Innings: If your team runs out of challenges, you receive one additional challenge per extra inning.
  

Pro Tips for Mastery

• Leverage 3-2 Counts: Full-count pitches are high-stakes. Overturning a call here directly affects whether the batter walks or strikes out, making these challenges especially valuable.
• Protect the Corners: The ABS strike zone is a strict rectangle. Even a tiny part of the pitch touching the zone counts as a strike. Don’t second-guess pitches that look borderline to the human eye.
• Save Challenges for Late Leverage: Pro players recommend holding at least one challenge for the 9th inning or late-game moments, where a single call can decide the outcome.
• Trust Your Catcher (Pitchers): The catcher often has the clearest view of the zone. Defer to their perspective when deciding whether to challenge.
• Watch Runner Positioning: If a pitch is challenged while a runner advances, umpires may let the runner keep their base even if the call is overturned. Keep an eye on base movement during challenges.
  

How to Disable ABS

Prefer a classic game experience without replay interruptions? You can turn the ABS system off:

• Go to Settings > General.
• Select the Rules tab.
• Toggle ABS Challenge System to Off.