How Cubs prepared for rule change leading up to Cactus League opener vs. White Sox

MESA, Ariz. — Leading up to the Cubs’ Cactus League opener Friday, the players have had the chance to test out the automated ball-strike (ABS) challenge system during live batting practice in Sloan Park this week.

“Major League Baseball was just setting up the system to make sure it was operational for the spring training games,” Counsell said Tuesday. “And so, took advantage of that.”

The Cubs’ preparation for the system so far has included live batting practice since Tuesday and an ABS team meeting Thursday morning.