Veteran catcher Victor Caratini is adapting to Major League Baseball's new automated ball-strike system after his debut during a Grapefruit League game for the Houston Astros. In a match against the Mets, Caratini successfully challenged the umpire's calls on two pitches, showcasing the potential advantages of this technology for catchers. He expressed concern about the impact of the automated strike zone on the traditional role of pitch framing, a skill that has defined many catchers' careers.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding the system's future, which isn't expected to fully arrive in the majors until 2026, initial responses have been positive from players and managers alike. Astros manager Joe Espada remarked on the quickness of the challenge process, indicating that the system holds promise for improving call accuracy. Caratini, who has spent eight seasons in the majors, is preparing to adjust his techniques, emphasizing the need for catchers to learn the strike zone better in a changing landscape.