In a historic moment during a spring training game between the Chicago Cubs and the Los Angeles Dodgers, pitcher Cody Poteet challenged a call using the Automated Ball-Strike System (ABS) for the first time. The 95 mph fastball that Poteet threw to Dodgers slugger Max Muncy was initially called a ball by plate umpire Tony Randazzo, but upon review, it was determined to be a strike, changing the count and ultimately leading to Muncy striking out.
The ABS system, which is being tested in select spring training ballparks, allows teams to challenge two calls per game, with no additional challenges in extra innings. Only players on the field – batters, pitchers, or catchers – can initiate a challenge by tapping their helmet or cap within 2 seconds of the call. The process, which includes a quick review and announcement of the updated count, is estimated to take an average of 17 seconds.
