Reds’ Francona Opts Out of ABS Challenge, Focuses on Traditional Prep

Reds’ Francona Opts Out of ABS Challenge in Spring Training

Feb 21, 2025, 04:39 PM ET

In a move that has sparked conversation among baseball enthusiasts, Reds manager Terry Francona has decided to opt out of the automated ball-strike (ABS) challenge trial during spring training. However, he is open to allowing Cincinnati’s minor league players, who are already familiar with the system, to use it.

The ABS system is an intriguing development in baseball, allowing pitchers, hitters, and catchers to immediately challenge a ball-strike call. While Major League Baseball is not fully adopting the system this season, it has initiated a trial involving 13 spring training ballparks. This trial began on Thursday, and teams are permitted two challenges per game. Notably, these challenges must be initiated by on-field players, not from the dugout or by the manager.

Francona shared his thoughts on the matter, stating, “I’m OK with seeing our younger kids do it because they’ve done it. It’s not a strategy for [the MLB teams], so why work on it? I don’t want to make a farce of anything, but we’re here getting ready for a season and that’s not helping us get ready.”

The ABS system was used for the first time at Camelback Ranch during Thursday’s spring training opener between the Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago Cubs.

For those unfamiliar with the ABS system, it represents a significant shift in how the game is officiated. The technology aims to reduce human error in calling balls and strikes, a topic that has been debated for years. While some purists argue that the human element is an essential part of the game, others believe that technology can enhance fairness and accuracy.

Francona’s decision not to engage with the ABS system during spring training is a strategic one. He seems to be prioritizing the traditional preparation methods for his major league players, focusing on getting them ready for the upcoming season without the distraction of a new system that is not yet a permanent fixture in the league.

However, by allowing minor league players to use the ABS system, Francona is acknowledging the importance of adaptability and familiarity with emerging technologies. These younger players, who have already experienced the system in the minors, can continue to hone their skills and understanding of the ABS, potentially giving them an edge if and when the system is fully integrated into the major leagues.

As the trial continues, it will be interesting to see how other teams and managers approach the ABS system. Will they follow Francona’s lead, or will they embrace the opportunity to experiment with the technology during spring training? Only time will tell.

In the meantime, here are some key points to consider:

• The ABS system allows for immediate challenges to ball-strike calls.
• Teams are allowed two challenges per game, initiated by on-field players.
• The system is currently in a trial phase in 13 spring training ballparks.
• Francona is opting out for his major league players but allowing minor leaguers to use it.

As the baseball world watches this trial unfold, the reactions and strategies of different teams will provide valuable insights into the future of officiating in the sport. Whether the ABS system becomes a staple in Major League Baseball remains to be seen, but for now, it is certainly a topic of lively discussion and debate.