Lawrence Butler takes credit for ABS challenge system implantation

In the early part of spring training, the automated ball-strike system (ABS) has made big headlines, including three overturned calls in the first two innings of Monday's game between the Pittsburgh Pirates and Boston Red Sox.

Not to say that will become the norm in most games this season, but the importance of the system is already paying dividends by ensuring umpires get the calls right.

Oakland Athletics right fielder Lawrence Butler is likely one of many players excited about the new system being implemented, and in fact, he goes so far as to say he is the reason the ABS is now here.

More: MLB analyst puts the spotlight on the Athletics' young arm to step up

In a short on-field interview with Chris Rose, Butler was asked about how much he trusts himself when it comes to tapping his head in reference to using the ABS this upcoming season.

"I trust myself 100 percent, and I kind of feel like I played a big part in having the ABS brought in this year," Butler stated on the post that can be seen on the 'Chris Rose Sports' page on 'X'.

The outfielder referenced his reasoning for this statement, citing an interview from last season in which he said he would add the ABS if he were the MLB commissioner for a day, while calling out the umpires for not caring at times.

"I got a fine, but hey, it's for a better cause," Butler also expressed.

Whether Butler's rant was the push the league needed to get the system in place or not, it undoubtedly puts the game in a better position to get calls right, which could have a huge impact on who wins or loses games.

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