Arizona Fall League ABS Tech

Major League Baseball (MLB) will operate the Automated Ball-Strike System ("ABS") in select Arizona Fall League venues. ABS will leverage optical tracking data to determine ball and strike calls in case of a player challenge. ABS Techs will provide quality support to the umpires and the technology while capturing data about system performance.

Support and Data Entry:

The ABS Tech will operate the ABS challenge equipment in the press box and support the plate umpire, including his device, functionality, and wiring. The ABS application is a simple web application operated on an MLB-supplied device with an ethernet connection. The data points entered by ABS for each at-bat throughout the game will include:

• No audio
• Slow or delayed audio
• Pitch call issue flag
• Challenge tallies

Responsibilities Include:

• Arrive at the ballpark approximately 2 hours before first pitch and check in with remote MLB support staff.
• Conduct pre-game checks of equipment (escalate and troubleshoot system issues as necessary).
• Assist the umpire with set-up.
• Operate the ABS application while tracking and entering data.
• Communicate with MLB staff to ensure proper umpire support and data accuracy.
• Conduct a post-game meeting with the umpire.
• Communicate any questions, issues, problems, or feedback to our game-night support staff to contribute to the ongoing improvement of overall ABS operations.
• Submit a detailed post-game report.
• Routine day-to-day correspondence via email, Slack, voice call and/or text message, to keep current with coverage schedules and other scheduled assignments.
• Other game-day responsibilities during Spring Training, the regular season and/or Postseason as determined by Data Operations supervisor(s).

Qualifications Include:

• Exceptional (and demonstrable) knowledge of baseball and its rules
• Strong computer proficiency (Windows OS and Windows-based software) and the ability to quickly learn and operate new software
• Exceptional understanding of iPad operation
• Previous experience (including press box exposure) with a professional or college sports team, preferably baseball
• Regular availability to attend games in person on weekdays, nights, and weekends
• Ability to assist in troubleshooting equipment, especially under pressure
• A “team player” with a great attitude, including but not limited to a willingness to learn from mistakes and the ability to work closely and cooperatively with our game-night support staff
• Professionalism. This position is a fun but high-profile opportunity that requires exceptional focus, reliability, and dedication.

New ABS Techs will undergo a correspondence and training program before working any games alone.

If you are interested in joining our team and require a reasonable accommodation to assist with any part of the application and/or interview process, please contact us by email at: [email protected].