What is the fastest MLB pitch? This is a question that has intrigued baseball fans for decades, as they marvel at the incredible speed and skill of pitchers who can throw a baseball at nearly 100 miles per hour (mph). The fastest pitch in Major League Baseball (MLB) has been a testament to the evolution of pitching techniques and the physical abilities of athletes. Let’s dive into the history and records of the fastest MLB pitches.

The fastest pitch in MLB history was thrown by Aroldis Chapman, a Cuban-born pitcher who played for the Cincinnati Reds and the Chicago Cubs. On April 25, 2010, Chapman achieved a remarkable 105.1 mph during a game against the Pittsburgh Pirates. This record-breaking pitch was clocked by MLB’s PITCHf/x system, which uses radar to measure the speed of pitches with great accuracy.

Before PITCHf/x, the fastest pitch was believed to have been thrown by Nolan Ryan, who held the record with a 100.9 mph fastball on June 23, 1974, against the California Angels. Ryan’s record held for over three decades until Chapman shattered it.

Several other pitchers have thrown pitches in the 100 mph range, but none have matched Chapman’s record. For instance, in 2018, the Los Angeles Dodgers’ Yu Darvish threw a 105.1 mph pitch, which tied Chapman’s record. Darvish has been known for his ability to throw pitches in the triple digits, and his record-breaking pitch came during a game against the New York Yankees.

The ability to throw a 100 mph pitch is not only a testament to a pitcher’s arm strength but also to their pitching mechanics and mental fortitude. Pitchers like Chapman and Darvish have developed unique techniques that allow them to generate such immense velocity. They often have long arms, strong legs, and a high leg kick to generate the necessary momentum and torque.

The rise of the 100 mph pitch in MLB has sparked a debate about the role of velocity in modern baseball. Some argue that the emphasis on velocity has led to an increase in injuries, particularly in pitchers’ arms. Others believe that the increased velocity makes the game more exciting and challenging for hitters.

In conclusion, the fastest MLB pitch is a testament to the evolution of pitching techniques and the physical abilities of athletes. Aroldis Chapman’s 105.1 mph pitch will likely remain a record for years to come, as the pursuit of velocity continues to be a driving force in the sport. Whether or not the trend of increasing pitching velocity will continue remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the fastest MLB pitch will always be a marvel of athletic prowess and a source of fascination for baseball fans around the world.