MLB bans AI use; Mets' aggressive adoption cited as catalyst

Major League Baseball has implemented a league-wide ban on the use of artificial intelligence tools to aid in game-related decisions, a move that has drawn attention to the New York Mets' aggressive adoption of such technology.

Former pitcher Adam Ottavino, who has played for both the Yankees and the Mets, revealed on the "Baseball & Coffee" podcast that the Mets' heavy reliance on AI was a significant factor leading to the league's prohibition. He stated that the Mets were "using it too much," and that owner Steve Cohen had invested heavily in AI software.

Ottavino indicated that the Mets were a primary focus for MLB's scrutiny. "The Mets have an expensive AI system, and they weren't hiding it," he said, suggesting the team used AI for pitching strategies and potentially other areas. He noted that "some coaches in the league were discussing this."

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The Mets have an expensive AI system, and they weren't hiding it.

MLB reportedly detected the Mets' extensive use of AI, prompting immediate action to halt the practice across all teams. "Major League Baseball quickly noticed and immediately stopped it, so clearly they weren't the only ones doing it," Ottavino commented. He estimated Cohen's investment in AI to be in the hundreds of thousands of dollars.

The Mets have not yet responded to Ottavino's claims. The ban comes as the league seeks to maintain the integrity of the game, with concerns that AI could provide an unfair advantage.

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Major League Baseball quickly noticed and immediately stopped it, so clearly they weren't the only ones doing it.