T-Mobile Partners with MLB to Unveil 5G-Powered Automated Ball-Strike System

On February 21, 2025, T-Mobile US Inc. (NASDAQ: TMUS), the official wireless partner of Major League Baseball (MLB), announced an exciting new development in the intersection of technology and sports: the introduction of a 5G-powered Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) system. This innovative technology will make its debut during the MLB spring training games at Steinbrenner Field in Tampa, Florida, marking a significant milestone in the use of advanced technology in baseball.

The ABS system leverages T-Mobile’s private 5G Advanced Network Solution (ANS) to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of ball-strike calls. This system has been tested over the past two years in select minor league games and at the MLB All-Star Futures Game, paving the way for its major league debut. The ABS utilizes high-speed Hawk-Eye cameras strategically positioned around the stadium to triangulate the strike zone for each batter, ensuring precise pitch location verification.

Once a pitch is thrown, T-Mobile’s 5G network transmits real-time data from the ABS system via connected devices, facilitating fast and secure communication between the technology and MLB officials. This ultra-reliable and low-latency connection is expected to transform how baseball is officiated, providing fans with a more transparent and engaging experience.

T-Mobile's robust 5G network will not only power the ABS system but also support various devices used by MLB officials and staff. These include laptops for inputting team lineups and tablets that provide real-time video for analysis and feedback. This comprehensive integration of technology is set to enhance the overall game-day experience for players, officials, and fans alike.

In addition to the ABS rollout, T-Mobile has been actively expanding its 5G coverage across MLB stadiums nationwide. The company has successfully deployed private 5G networks in 27 ballparks, with plans to establish coverage in every U.S. ballpark by the end of 2025. This expansion underscores T-Mobile's commitment to enhancing connectivity and entertainment experiences for baseball fans across the country.

As part of its ongoing efforts to deliver value to its customers, T-Mobile announced the return of one of its most popular perks: a free season-long subscription to MLB.TV, valued at $149.99. This promotional offer will be available from March 25 to March 31, just in time for the start of the MLB season. Eligible customers—including those with T-Mobile, Metro by T-Mobile, Home Internet, and Small Business accounts—can access MLB.TV through T-Mobile Tuesdays in the T-Life app.

MLB.TV provides fans with access to both home and away broadcasts, allowing them to enjoy live and on-demand coverage of every out-of-market regular season game, along with in-market games. Last season, T-Mobile customers collectively streamed an impressive 58 million hours of live baseball on MLB.TV, showcasing the popularity of this service.

T-Mobile continues to enhance the value proposition for its customers, particularly those with Magenta Status, who enjoy a range of exclusive perks and experiences. From free in-flight Wi-Fi to high-speed data abroad, T-Mobile customers benefit from an array of entertainment options and savings. Metro customers are also able to access the best benefits in prepaid wireless, including weekly deals and an Amazon Prime membership.

T-Mobile’s partnership with MLB to launch the 5G-powered ABS system represents a significant advancement in sports technology, promising to enhance the accuracy of officiating while providing fans with an enriched viewing experience. With the return of free MLB.TV and ongoing expansion of its 5G network across stadiums, T-Mobile is solidifying its position as a leader in both the telecommunications and sports industries, ensuring that customers receive the best in connectivity and entertainment.

For further updates and information, T-Mobile encourages fans to follow @TMobileNews on X, formerly known as Twitter.