At the 2025 MLB All-Star Week in Atlanta, T-Mobile showcased the potential of private 5G networks to change the game — literally and figuratively. From powering the first-ever Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) challenge system at the All-Star Game to delivering immersive fan experiences, T-Mobile’s Advanced Network Solutions (ANS) demonstrated what low-latency, high-capacity 5G can achieve in a live, high-density sporting environment.

The deployment extended beyond the ballpark, covering Truist Park and The Battery Atlanta entertainment district, delivering permanent Ultra Capacity 5G upgrades to the region while creating a blueprint for future smart stadiums.

Connectivity Challenges of Hosting MLB All-Star Week

Hosting MLB’s marquee event posed unique connectivity challenges:

• Ultra-Low Latency for ABS: Pitch tracking required millisecond-level response for real-time verification and decision relays.

• High-Density Traffic: Tens of thousands of fans, multiple broadcasters, and operations teams required simultaneous high-speed connectivity.

• Mission-Critical Communications: Ensuring dedicated network slices for MLB operations and first responders.

• Seamless Broadcast: Supporting 55+ wireless cameras, drones, and high-frame-rate feeds without hardwired connections.

• Enhanced Fan Engagement: Creating immersive, interactive experiences while maintaining network stability.

Traditional public networks could not meet these mission-critical requirements without dedicated private 5G infrastructure.

How T-Mobile’s 5G Private Network Transformed the All-Star Experience

T-Mobile deployed a dedicated 5G Private Network integrated with network slicing and edge computing to serve three core functions: game operations, broadcast innovation, and fan engagement.

1. Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) Challenge System

• Debuted at the All-Star Game and featured in the Futures Game.

• Uses T-Mobile’s private 5G network to transmit pitch data instantly from sensors to the ABS system.

• Real-time communication ensures accurate call verification, quick challenges, and immediate feedback for players and fans.

2. Immersive Fan Experiences

• T-Mobile 5G Batting Practice Show (5G BP): Delivered new 360° drone angles, field-level POV shots, and real-time remote production for millions of viewers.

• Fan Connectivity: Ultra Capacity 5G upgrades around Truist Park provided faster speeds and stable performance for thousands of devices.

• Exclusive Perks: Club Magenta VIP access, fast-lane stadium entry, free merchandise, and the $1M Fanatics FanCash giveaway.

3. Smart Event Operations

• Network Slicing for Operations and First Responders: T-Mobile’s “T-Priority” allocated up to five times more network resources to mission-critical teams.

• Non-Ticketed Entry: Facial authentication powered by 5G enabled seamless, secure staff entry without physical credentials.

• Rapid Content Delivery: MLB photographers and media teams used 5G to upload and distribute high-resolution images instantly.

The Results: ABS Accuracy, Immersive Broadcasts, and Fan Satisfaction

Mike Katz, T-Mobile’s President of Marketing, Strategy and Products, highlighted the scale of the deployment:
“This year, we’re showcasing the power of the T-Mobile network in a big way with the first All-Star Game to use the 5G-powered ABS system, enhanced fan connectivity, and mission-critical network slicing. This is transformation on and off the field.”

Fox Sports relied on T-Mobile’s private 5G for:

• 55 Wireless Cameras: Including 6 Super-Slow-Mo units, high-speed 4,500 FPS cage cameras, and 360° drones.

• Full Umpire Crew Cams: Base umpires wore MindFly chest cams, while the home plate umpire used a third-generation RF Wireless Mask Cam.

• Seamless HDR Integration: Real-time color management of specialty cameras over 5G for consistent broadcast quality.

Behind the Tech: 5G Core, Edge Computing, and Network Slicing

The deployment leveraged:

• Private 5G Core and RAN: Dedicated network for ABS, broadcast, and operational applications.

• Standalone 5G Architecture: Providing ultra-low latency and massive device support.

• Network Slicing: Creating isolated, prioritized slices for MLB operations, first responders, and fan experiences.

• Edge Computing: Localized processing for ABS and media workflows, reducing backhaul latency.

• High-Capacity Backhaul: Supporting simultaneous 4K HDR streams, remote production, and live analytics.

Key Benefits of Private 5G for Live Sports and Smart Stadiums

• For the Game: Accurate, real-time ABS decisions and improved operational efficiency.

• For Fans: Enhanced stadium connectivity, immersive viewing angles, and VIP experiences.

• For Broadcasters: Flexible, wireless camera workflows and ultra-fast content delivery.

• For Safety Teams: Reliable mission-critical communications during high-traffic events.

• For the City: Permanent 5G infrastructure upgrades benefiting enterprises and residents.

How T-Mobile’s MLB Deployment Sets a Standard for Smart Venues

The deployment demonstrates the power of 5G Private Networks for live sports and entertainment. It sets a model for smart stadiums, integrating ABS automation, immersive fan engagement, and network slicing for operations.

Other sports leagues, concert venues, and large-scale events can replicate this approach to enhance real-time operations, fan experiences, and broadcast innovation.

T-Mobile’s 5G Advanced Network Solutions at the Core of MLB All-Star Week

T-Mobile delivered the entire private 5G infrastructure through its 5G Advanced Network Solutions, including network design, deployment, and integration of slicing and edge compute capabilities.

MLB, Fox Sports, and CP Communications: Collaborative 5G Innovation

• MLB: Integrated ABS and coordinated smart operations use cases.

• Fox Sports: Utilized the network for 5G-powered production, immersive camera angles, and broadcast workflows.

• CP Communications: Managed private 5G coverage and RF comms for specialized devices.

MLB All-Star 2025: 5G Deployment Timeline and Expansion Plans

• July 2025: Private 5G deployed for All-Star Week, ABS challenge system debuts at the All-Star Game.

• End of 2025: T-Mobile plans to roll out private 5G to every MLB stadium in the U.S.

What T-Mobile and Fox Sports Say About 5G in Live Sports

“Private 5G allows us to expand coverage and deliver innovations like full umpire cams and 360° drone shots that were impossible with traditional RF.” – Brad Cheney, VP, Fox Sports.

“This deployment shows what’s possible when advanced 5G meets live sports operations and fan engagement.” – Mike Katz, T-Mobile.