Former New York Mets pitcher Adam Ottavino revealed in a recent media session that the team had been using generative AI to predict pitches. He claimed that the club used “a hundred thousand dollars” on the AI software that helped them predict the live games from the dugout.

Ottavino added that the New York Mets “weren’t the only team” to use AI, but Mets owner Steve Cohen “ponied up” for this program and invested thousands of dollars into it. Fans heavily criticized the Mets following the reveal on social media.

The MLB also banned teams from using league-provided dugout iPads for AI tools in hopes of stopping the influence on in-game decisions. According to the commissioner’s office memo, several teams installed custom apps that allowed the teams to use AI-driven data on pitch calling and other strategic moves.

It was reported that one-third of the teams had used the iPads for AI purposes. However, as per MLB’s review, all clubs have remained compliant with the existing rules on sign stealing, so the teams were not punished for their previous use of the technology.

Major League Baseball immediately took action mid-season to limit teams’ from using AI tools in the dugouts. One executive said the league needed to:

The iPads were introduced in the league in 2016 and were originally restricted to approved data and video access. However, later the teams expanded their use with customized apps. However, teams can still use pregame data, but now MLB will be reviewing the uploaded content.

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