Convenience Big Store: How Astros plan to approach automated ball-strike challenge system

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Today's starting lineup

It's not quite robo umps, but MLB's automated ball-strike system comes to the majors this year. Astros manager Joe Espada has a simple approach on how his team should use its challenges: remove emotion and let the catcher take control. Matt Kawahara has the details.

Want the latest from Milan Cortina? Be sure to check out our Olympics page.

Please scroll down for the rest of this morning's headlines.

Reid Laymance, Sports Editor

reid.laymance@houstonchronicle.com

Astros / MLB

Houston Astros Jeremy Peña (3) signals to check the nearby video screen utilizing the Automated Ball-Strike challenge system during Spring Training at CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches in West Palm Beach, Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2026.

Photo by: Jason Fochtman, Houston Chronicle

How Astros plan to approach MLB's automated ball-strike challenge system

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Texans / NFL

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Photo by: Icon Sportswire, Icon Sportswire Via Getty Images

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Texas A&M Football

Texas A&M head coach Mike Elko is seen before an NCAA college football game in Austin, Friday, Nov. 28, 2025.

Photo by: Jason Fochtman, Houston Chronicle

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