As Major League Baseball prepares for a future with technology influencing ball and strike calls, the Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) challenge system is taking center stage during spring training. Starting in 2025, players will have the ability to challenge calls made by umpires, enhancing accountability and potentially improving game outcomes. Each team is allowed up to two challenges per game, and players can signal a challenge by tapping their helmets. With the system already proving effective in the minors, key Astros players like Jeremy Peña and Jake Meyers have expressed support, highlighting the need for more consistent calls.

Concerns remain among players regarding the impact of automation on the human element of the game, notably pitch framing. While some believe it could lessen the importance of catchers' skills, others argue that the challenge system could maintain the delicate balance between technology and traditional umpiring. As teams begin to strategize their approach to challenges, the upcoming season could herald a significant shift in how games are officiated in MLB.

The Houston Astros are experimenting with Jose Altuve in left field during spring training, a shift from his established position at second base. Manager Joe Espada has confirmed that Altuve has yet to take ground balls at his old spot, opting instead to focus on outfield drills. The team is cautious about Altuve's workload, scaling back his running in some drills to prevent overexertion. His potential transition to the outfield is also tied to concerns about his arm strength, which showed promise during recent cut-off drills.

Alongside Altuve, key players like Yordan Alvarez and Jeremy Peña are expected to make their Grapefruit League debuts later next week. Pitchers Lance McCullers Jr. and Luis Garcia are also progressing well as they recover from surgery, adding depth to the Astros' roster.

Identifying post-hype sleepers is crucial to maximizing your fantasy baseball draft potential. Prospects like Jonathan India and Gleyber Torres are prime examples of infielders poised for a breakout in 2025. India, despite past injuries, showed promise with a solid 2024 season and now plays alongside strong hitters in Kansas City. Torres, moving from New York to Detroit, could thrive under less pressure, especially with a notable midseason resurgence last year. Jeremy Peña's power increase, Royce Lewis' health, and Andrew Vaughn's potential make them equally intriguing options for savvy fantasy players looking to capitalize on undervalued talent.

Draft day is just the beginning of your fantasy baseball journey. The real challenge lies in in-season management, where timely transactions can significantly impact your team's success. Many managers overlook in-season strategies, often distracted by other sports. However, the decisions about how your league handles player acquisitions—via waiver systems or free agent budgets—are crucial. Understanding these systems can make or break your season.

In a waiver system, claims can often dictate who gets valuable players, while a Free Agent Budget (FAB) allows for strategic bidding. Knowing when to be aggressive or conservative with your claims is key, especially during peak times like the MLB trade deadline. Each league's unique rules, whether they cap transactions or allow free picking, will shape your approach to team management. So, stay engaged throughout the season to maximize your championship chances.

The Houston Astros have unveiled their promotional event schedule for the 2025 MLB season, which includes an impressive array of 50 giveaways throughout the season, with themes attached to various home games.

Among notable giveaways are a Jeremy Peña retro basketball jersey, a Yordan Alvarez bobblehead commemorating his first career cycle, and a Jose Altuve bubblegum bobblehead. The season will be highlighted by the August Hall of Fame Weekend series against the Baltimore Orioles, featuring jersey retirement for Billy Wagner. Weekly promotions will also be part of the festivities, including special themed nights and giveaways during select matchups.