WATCH: Cody Poteet on his first Cubs start, using the ABS system

Tony Crumpton - Senior Editor - 20 hours ago

Chicago Cubs pitcher Cody Poteet spoke to the media following his outing against the Dodgers talking about the usage of the ABS challenge system, how he felt about making the first challenge in spring training with ABS and more.

“I thought it caught a good amount of plate,” Poteet said about challenging a ball call. “So thought it was worth using one of them.”

Watch the interview below:

Video summary/cliff-note:

(00:00) Cody Poteet discussed being the first major leaguer to use the ABS challenge system in a Cubs game, mentioning previous experience in Triple-A helped it feel natural.

(00:33) He used the system to challenge a fastball he believed caught a good part of the plate, feeling confident in his decision.

(01:04) While unsure if he would use it early in a regular-season game, he acknowledged that every strike matters, making strategy important.

(01:29) ABS usage in Triple-A was more situational, based on feel and game context, with some calls being clearer than others.

(02:01) He didn’t notice any changes in umpire strike zones after a challenge, though he acknowledged the system could bring a new dynamic to the game.

(02:34) Watching the replay confirmed his challenge was correct, and he was relieved not to be the first player to get one wrong.

(03:04) Poteet is neutral on the ABS system being used in MLB but sees potential for keeping calls fair while adding a fan-engaging element.

(03:36) There wasn’t much discussion among players about ABS since it’s not being implemented this season, but it was available for use in certain spring training stadiums.

(04:39) Successfully challenging the call gave him a favorable count and influenced his pitch selection, ultimately leading to an out.

(05:41) While the ABS challenge does provide extra time between pitches, he’s unsure if players are using it strategically for breathing room.