Several of the Reds minor leaguers have prior experience with the ABS challenge system, which, along with full ABS (all balls and strikes automated) was tested at the Double and Triple-A levels in '23 and '24. By the end of '24, full ABS was dropped in favor of the happy middle ground, the ABS challenge system.

There wasn't a lone factor that allowed Stephen Vogt the confidence he has in his job today, but his predecessor, Terry Francona, certainly helped.

Reds manager Terry Francona plans to opt out of elective participation in the Automated Ball-Strike Challenge trial during spring training, but is willing to let Cincinnati's minor-league players accustomed to the procedure use challenges.

GOODYEAR, Arizona − Terry Francona is anxious, and the anxiety's been building for about 10 days. "I'll feel better when tomorrow's done," Francona said. "I'm excited, but I'll feel better." He's talking about his opening address to Cincinnati Reds players on Monday,

Cincinnati Reds manager Terry Francona watches a batting practice session at the Cincinnati Reds Player Development Complex in Goodyear, Ariz., on Wednesday, Feb. 12, 2025. Mandatory Credit: Sam Greene/USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images / Cincinnati Enquirer-Imagn Images

GOODYEAR, Ariz. — Terry Francona, the winningest manager in Cleveland history, will not be in the dugout when his new team, the Cincinnati Reds, opens the Cactus League season against the Guardians on Saturday at Goodyear Ballpark.

Reds manager Terry Francona plans to opt out of elective participation in the Automated Ball-Strike Challenge trial during spring training, but is willing to let Cincinnati's minor-league players accu