Marlins give their thoughts on MLB's automated ball-strike experiment

JUPITER, FL—MLB has announced the implementation of the Automatic Ball-Strike (ABS) system for approximately 60% of spring training games in 2025. The league plans to use the exhibition season to evaluate whether the system is suitable for the regular season. Hawk-Eye technology will be utilized in the background behind home plate, allowing pitchers, catchers and batters to challenge ball or strike calls they believe were incorrect by the umpire.

For Miami, 19 of their 30 spring training games will be played in ballparks equipped with Hawk-Eye technology, including Hammond Stadium, Clover Park and Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium. Each team will start the game with two challenges apiece. While the system will not be in place for the 2025 MLB regular season, it is expected to debut in the near future, with reports indicating 2026 as a potential start date.

Marlins manager Clayton McCullough shared his thoughts on the upcoming trial. “I’m excited to see how it plays out,” McCullough said. “The reception in Triple-A was very positive and it’s exciting to have the chance to test it further in major league spring training.”

Though the first-year manager is eager to see how the system performs in a major league setting, he wouldn’t be a fan of eliminating the human element of umpire decision-making. “I wouldn’t be a fan of total ABS, but Major League Baseball has done a wonderful job of trying to make this game as fan-friendly as they can, so maybe this is just another step in that direction.”

Non-roster invitee Troy Johnston, a first baseman/outfielder, is more enthusiastic about the system’s implementation. “I think it should be implemented right away,” Johnston said. “It’s one of the best ways to hold umpires accountable. There have been both good and bad calls, and some umpires have off days. Holding them accountable is important.”

Johnston, 27, has had extended experience with the challenge system in the minors, referencing the strategy that goes along with it, depending on how many the players get. “I’ve played with two and I’ve played with three, and I strongly prefer three,” said Johnston. "It gives a bit more flexibility because with two, there’s a ton of strategy to it. However, more than three, it will get a hectic.”

Marlins outfielder Griffin Conine is also an advocate for the challenge system. “I think the system is the perfect medium where you don’t make the umpires obsolete, they’re still a part of the game, but you’re also holding them accountable if you trust your eyes enough at the plate.” 

Conine, 27, who has accumulated over 2,400 plate appearances in the minors, is familiar with the system. “I’m not sure of my exact percentages, but I’ve never had a bad challenge,” he said. “Some players will challenge calls and it turns out the pitch is right down the middle.”

Marlins outfielder Kyle Stowers, who is competing for a spot on the Opening Day roster, shared his perspective as a hitter. “I like the objectivity the ABS system brings,” Stowers said. “While the human element can make the game more entertaining, I think the challenge system is a great compromise.”

Stowers, who has experienced the ABS system in previous seasons, acknowledged his approach as an aggressive hitter. “I’d say I’m decent with it,” he chuckled. “As an aggressive hitter, if I take a pitch, it’s usually way outside, so I need to get better with it.”

News and notes from around camp

• Marlins NRI Woo-Suk Go has a fractured right index finger he sustained while doing some drill work in the weight room. He will be reevaluated in the next couple of weeks, per Clayton McCullough.

• Ace Sandy Alcantara will make his Grapefruit League debut on Sunday, February 23 in Port St. Lucie against the New York Mets. “It’s about lining things up where it fits best into his calendar and working backwards from Opening Day,” said McCullough on Thursday. Alcantara is expected to throw one inning or 25-30 pitches on Sunday. 
• During a live batting practice session on the main field, Griffin Conine launched a gargantuan home run of Xzavion Curry that landed on the roof of the Cardinals’ office buildings in right field. “Homers always feel good, but I’m more focused on controlling the zone and swinging at strikes and laying off balls,” said Conine. “I’ve seen days where 110 (mph exit velocities) aren't getting out in Roger Dean, so yeah, I definitely squared it up pretty good.