Cubs' Craig Counsell Weighs In on New Automated Ball-Strike Challenge System

Counsell says the new rule will be "a fun thing for fans" as teams test it out in Cactus League games.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Cubs manager Craig Counsell discussed the new automated ball-strike challenge system that is being implemented in Major League Baseball this season. Counsell said the Cubs plan to let their players challenge calls during spring training games, noting that it will be "a fun thing for fans" to see the new system in action. The automated challenge system was tested last spring and used in the Triple-A regular season.

Why it matters

The new automated ball-strike challenge system is a significant rule change that will impact gameplay and strategy across MLB. Counsell's comments provide insight into how the Cubs plan to approach the new system and how it may be received by fans.

The details

The automated ball-strike challenge system allows each team two challenges per game to appeal calls made by the home plate umpire. Counsell said the Cubs want to give the umpires a chance to "get the call right" and believes fans will enjoy seeing the system in action, with the strike zone graphic displayed on the scoreboard.

  • The automated ball-strike challenge system is now a part of Major League Baseball.
  • The system was tested out last spring and used during the Triple-A regular season.

The players

Craig Counsell

The manager of the Chicago Cubs.

Caleb Thielbar

A 39-year-old relief pitcher who re-signed with the Cubs on a one-year deal after being one of their most consistent relievers last season.

Munetaka Murakami

A new addition to the Chicago White Sox lineup, who is looking to bring some needed power to the team.

Colson Montgomery

A White Sox shortstop who had a strong rookie season in 2022, hitting 21 home runs in 71 games after starting the year at Triple-A.

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What they’re saying

“We want the umpires to get the call right. I think we're going to learn how good umpires are. I think it's going to be a fun thing for fans. The graphic on the scoreboard will be enjoyable for fans. We should give it some time to breathe. I think that's the main thing right now. I think it'll be a good idea ... I think fans will really enjoy it.”

— Craig Counsell, Cubs Manager (cbsnews.com)

“We have a veteran group of guys that I think realizes how special it is to make the postseason, and you just realize that you don't have that many chances to go win that World Series, and for me in particular, I'm coming to the end of it, whether I like it or not. It's a good deal for me to be on a team that I feel like has a chance to make it all the way.”

— Caleb Thielbar, Cubs Relief Pitcher (cbsnews.com)

“I was very nervous at first, but the teammates, the locker room, the staff, even the coaches, everybody's really, really, really nice. Be happy to be here.”

— Munetaka Murakami (cbsnews.com)

“It's freakish, you know? He's got the juice, and he's got all that stuff, and he has, he's really smart, has a really good understanding of his swing and his process, and that's something you can respect.”

— Colson Montgomery, White Sox Shortstop (cbsnews.com)

What’s next

The White Sox will hold their first full-squad workout on Sunday, while the Cubs will do so on Monday, with most of the position players already in camp this week.

The takeaway

The new automated ball-strike challenge system is a significant rule change that will impact gameplay and strategy across MLB. Counsell's comments suggest the Cubs plan to embrace the new system, believing it will be an enjoyable experience for fans as they test it out during spring training.