Cubs pitcher Poteet makes first ABS challenge and wins

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A replay shows on the scoreboard using the Automated Ball-Strike System during the first inning of Thursday’s spring training game between the Cubs and Dodgers in Phoenix. ASHLEY LANDIS — THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

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GLENDALE, Ariz. >> Chicago Cubs pitcher Cody Poteet believed the 95 mph fastball he threw to Los Angeles Dodgers slugger Max Muncy was in the strike zone. Plate umpire Tony Randazzo disagreed and called it a ball.

Instead of arguing, Poteet simply patted the top of his cap, signifying he wanted to challenge the call.

After a few seconds, the verdict was ready on the video board in right-center field. Poteet was correct — the pitch was a strike, just catching the bottom of the zone.

The first test of the Automated Ball-Strike System went off without a hitch Thursday, with Randazzo quickly reversing the call. Instead of a 1-1 count for Muncy, the batter was in an 0-2 hole and struck out three pitches later.

Robot umpires have arrived in the big leagues, at least in exhibition games. The Cubs and World Series champion Dodgers opened the spring training schedule with an added wrinkle: Camelback Ranch is among the test sites for the ABS, which could be used in big league regular-season games as soon as 2026.

The Cubs and Dodgers opened this year’s spring training schedule earlier than the other 28 teams because they’re playing each other in Tokyo to open the regular season on March 18-19.

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ESPN and MLB both made statements confirming the end of the current rights deal.

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Boone has led the Yankees to a 603-429 record, three AL East titles and one pennant.

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The 33-year-old is 51-62 with a 4.45 ERA during his 11-year career, mostly with the Los Angeles Angels.