MLB Slaps the Hammer on AI in Dugouts

Major League Baseball has stepped in to stop teams from using the league‑issued iPads in dugouts for artificial intelligence tools that help decide things like who to put on the field or which pitch to throw. The move came after a memo said that some clubs had added custom apps to the tablets, turning them into smart assistants for coaches and managers.

Scope of Use
Roughly one‑third of teams were using the iPads for these extra functions.
Teams had a month to stop before the policy took effect.
Reactions
Data‑savvy front‑office staff view the ban as a step back.
Others worry that letting technology dictate in‑game choices could be unfair.
Context
Part of MLB’s ongoing effort to keep the game clean after past sign‑stealing scandals.
No violations of the electronic‑device policy were found, so no penalties were handed out.
The timing underscores how seriously MLB is treating the issue.

Evolution of the iPads
Introduced in 2016 with delayed video and basic stats.
Expanded to include Statcast data, automated ball‑strike info, and a “custom tab” for each club’s spreadsheets.
Some teams fed live game data into AI to predict pitches or suggest strategies.
Most Controversial Use
Calling pitches from the dugout instead of leaving it to the catcher and pitcher.
The Miami Marlins were the first; a handful of teams followed suit.
Unclear how many clubs still use AI in this way, but the new ban forces reliance on pre‑game numbers and human judgment.
Impact on Fans
Managers will now be held accountable for decisions that AI would have helped make, at least until the league finds a new way to balance tech and tradition.

Actions