The Astros will have limited exposure to MLB's automated ball-strike challenge system this spring, and manager Joe Espada wants his players to take advantage.

MLB using robo umps in 2025 All-Star Game: How ABS system works and when it could come to regular-season games The challenge system was used during spring training earlier this year ...

Starting Thursday at Camelback Ranch, where the Dodgers and Cubs will open Cactus League play, the ABS challenge system will begin being implemented.

If the ABS challenge system is adopted in the majors, then the question becomes whether that will be on a permanent basis or as a stepping stone to the full ABS.

The MLB will continue testing the ABS challenge system after an initial test run in spring training.

It didn’t take long for the ABS challenge system to be put to use, as in the bottom of the first inning, Cubs right-hander Cody Poteet asked for a review of his 0-1 pitch to Max Muncy.

GOODYEAR, Ariz. — Cincinnati Reds manager Terry Francona says he’s told players not to use the experimental Automated Ball-Strike System in spring training.

GOODYEAR, Ariz. (AP) — Cincinnati Reds manager Terry Francona says he's told players not to use the experimental Automated Ball-Strike System in spring training.