Red Sox Coach Thinks Roman Anthony Will Thrive With MLB’s New ABS Challenge System

Boston Red Sox hitting coach Chad Tracy sees even bigger things ahead for Roman Anthony under the automatic ball-strike challenge system debuting in 2026.

The Sports Hub’s Tyler Milliken posted the comments on Monday, highlighting Tracy’s confidence after watching Anthony in the ABS challenge format during the offseason.

Tracy noted Anthony ranked in the 94th percentile in Chase% as a rookie and added, “It’s cool for those of us that have seen (Anthony playing with the ABS challenge system) … We have the outlook that people don’t know what’s coming (with Anthony in 2026). They don’t really know what they’re about to watch.”

Chad Tracy thinks Roman Anthony is about to become even more of a threat with the new ABS system. He ranked in the 94th percentile in Chase% as a rookie.

“It’s cool for those of us that have seen [Anthony playing with the ABS challenge system]… We have the outlook that people… pic.twitter.com/HT7HQgAJOt

— Tyler Milliken (@tylermilliken_) February 16, 2026

The new system gives players the ability to challenge ball-strike calls, rewarding disciplined approaches at the plate. Roman’s low chase rate already made him tough to fool in his first big-league season. With the added strategic element, Tracy believes the young outfielder’s plate discipline will translate into even more consistent at-bats and higher-quality contact.

Boston’s lineup will rely heavily on Anthony’s production as the club aims to improve its offensive output. Early indications from camp suggest the 22-year-old is poised to take another step forward, and the ABS changes could accelerate that growth.