Johnston, who has experience with the challenge system in the minors, advocates for three challenges to enhance strategic flexibility for players.

Outfielder Griffin Conine supports the ABS system, viewing it as a means to maintain umpire involvement while ensuring accountability for their decisions.

The ABS strike zone has undergone adjustments, narrowing from 19 inches in 2022 to 17 inches in 2024, with height set at 53.5 percent of a batter's height based on pitcher feedback.

Manfred defended the high payroll of the Los Angeles Dodgers, attributing competitive balance issues to the league's economic structure rather than the team's spending.

Overall, while there is interest in the ABS technology, players believe it requires further refinement before full adoption.

Major League Baseball is set to trial the automated ball-strike (ABS) challenge system during spring training games, allowing players to contest specific calls while still retaining umpires in the decision-making process.

Commissioner Manfred expressed optimism about the reception of new rule changes, including the pitch clock and limits on defensive shifts, which have positively impacted fan attendance.

Both Boone and Mendoza value the challenge system for preserving a human element in officiating, contrasting it with fully automated systems.

In injury news, Woo-Suk Go has suffered a fractured right index finger and will be reevaluated soon, while ace Sandy Alcantara is set to make his Grapefruit League debut on February 23 against the Mets.

The Cubs recently triumphed over the Dodgers with a score of 12-4, with a rematch scheduled for February 21, 2025, leading up to their season opener in Japan in March.

Phillies manager Rob Thomson believes that catchers or batters should initiate challenges, as they have the best perspective on pitch movements.

Outfielder Kyle Stowers appreciates the objectivity of the ABS system, acknowledging it as a fair compromise between technology and traditional umpiring.