Major League Baseball (MLB) and the MLB Umpires Association have reached a tentative agreement regarding a new five-year collective bargaining agreement, as reported by Jesse Rogers of Moneyline. This new CBA is pending ratification by both the umpires and team owners in January 2025, following the expiration of the previous contract at the end of the 2024 season.

The agreement sets the stage for the league to likely test an automated strike system during Spring Training prior to the 2025 season. The discussion surrounding the implementation of an automated ball-strike system has gained traction in recent years. On November 20, MLB indicated plans to test robotic umpires in a challenge system at Spring Training across 13 ballparks, involving 19 teams in 2025, with the potential for regular-season utilization in 2026, as reported by Ronald Blum of the Associated Press. MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred expressed interest in incorporating this technology into gameplay, noting, 'I would be interested in having it in '26.' He acknowledged the importance of collective bargaining in this regard, stating, 'We do have a collective bargaining obligation there. That's obviously a term and condition of employment. We're going to have to work through that issue, as well.'

Rogers highlighted that the automated system was one of the final aspects both sides were deliberating in the new CBA. Following the agreement, the umpires union issued a statement affirming its satisfaction with the outcome. The union remarked, 'It's a fair contract and the OTC [office of the commissioner] treated us with respect throughout the negotiations.' They emphasized their understanding of the role they play in the sport and expressed optimism about fostering a partnership with open communication. The union added, 'We look forward to the continued positive growth in the game in the years to come.' With the conclusion of this latest contract, MLB and the MLB Umpires Association have successfully navigated five consecutive agreements without a labor dispute.