In the world of Major League Baseball (MLB), pitchers are known for their ability to deliver fast pitches that leave batters in awe. Throughout history, there have been numerous pitchers who have showcased their incredible speed on the mound, solidifying their place in baseball lore. From legends like Nolan Ryan to modern-day stars like Aroldis Chapman, these pitchers have left a lasting impact on the game with their blazing fastballs.
One of the most intriguing aspects of baseball is the art of pitching. Pitchers are tasked with throwing strikes, getting batters out, and ultimately helping their team secure victories. While there are many different types of pitches in a pitcher’s arsenal, one of the most impressive feats a pitcher can achieve is throwing a fastball at an incredibly high speed.
Over the years, there have been several pitchers who have set records for delivering the fastest pitches in MLB history. These pitchers have captivated fans with their raw power and precision on the mound, leaving a lasting impression on the game. Let’s take a closer look at some of the pitchers responsible for delivering the top 10 fastest pitches in MLB history.
1. Aroldis Chapman
Aroldis Chapman is known for his electric fastball, which has consistently reached speeds over 100 miles per hour. In 2010, Chapman set the record for the fastest pitch ever recorded in MLB history, clocking in at an incredible 105.1 miles per hour. His ability to consistently throw triple-digit fastballs has made him one of the most dominant closers in the game.
2. Jordan Hicks
Jordan Hicks burst onto the scene in 2018 with the St. Louis Cardinals, showcasing his exceptional fastball velocity. Hicks quickly made a name for himself by consistently throwing pitches over 100 miles per hour, with his fastest pitch reaching 105.1 miles per hour. His impressive speed and command on the mound have made him a rising star in the league.
3. Mauricio Cabrera
Mauricio Cabrera made headlines in 2016 when he recorded a pitch that reached 103.8 miles per hour, making him one of the fastest pitchers in MLB history. Cabrera’s blazing fastball helped him become a key member of the Atlanta Braves bullpen, as he consistently overwhelmed hitters with his incredible velocity.
4. Arquimedes Caminero
Arquimedes Caminero is another pitcher who has showcased his impressive fastball velocity throughout his career. In 2016, Caminero recorded a pitch that reached 103.2 miles per hour, solidifying his reputation as one of the hardest-throwing pitchers in the game. His ability to consistently hit triple-digit speeds has made him a valuable asset to several MLB teams.
5. Neftalà Feliz
Neftalà Feliz burst onto the scene in 2010 with the Texas Rangers, showcasing his exceptional fastball velocity. Feliz quickly established himself as one of the top closers in the game, recording pitches that consistently reached speeds over 100 miles per hour. His fastest pitch clocked in at 103.2 miles per hour, highlighting his impressive speed and power on the mound.
6. Kelvin Herrera
Kelvin Herrera is known for his explosive fastball, which has consistently reached speeds over 100 miles per hour. In 2016, Herrera recorded a pitch that reached 103 miles per hour, showcasing his incredible velocity and command on the mound. His ability to overpower hitters with his blazing fastball has made him a valuable asset to several MLB teams.
7. Carter Capps
Carter Capps made waves in 2015 when he recorded a pitch that reached 102.7 miles per hour, solidifying his reputation as one of the hardest-throwing pitchers in the game. Capps’ unique delivery and exceptional velocity have made him a standout pitcher in MLB, as he consistently overwhelms hitters with his blazing fastball.
8. José Leclerc
José Leclerc is another pitcher who has impressed fans with his incredible fastball velocity. In 2019, Leclerc recorded a pitch that reached 102.4 miles per hour, showcasing his raw power and precision on the mound. His ability to consistently hit triple-digit speeds has made him a force to be reckoned with in the league.
9. Joel Zumaya
Joel Zumaya was known for his electric fastball, which consistently reached speeds over 100 miles per hour during his time in MLB. In 2006, Zumaya recorded a pitch that reached 102.3 miles per hour, solidifying his reputation as one of the hardest-throwing pitchers in the game. His impressive speed and command on the mound made him a fan favorite and a key member of the Detroit Tigers bullpen.
10. Gerrit Cole
Gerrit Cole is one of the most dominant pitchers in MLB today, known for his exceptional fastball velocity and command on the mound. In 2020, Cole recorded a pitch that reached 101.1 miles per hour, showcasing his incredible speed and power as a pitcher. His ability to consistently hit triple-digit speeds has made him one of the top pitchers in the game and a perennial Cy Young contender.
In conclusion, these pitchers have left an indelible mark on MLB history with their incredible fastball velocity and precision on the mound. From Aroldis Chapman’s record-breaking pitch to Gerrit Cole’s dominant performances, these pitchers have showcased their raw power and skill in delivering some of the fastest pitches in MLB history. As baseball continues to evolve, fans can look forward to seeing more pitchers push the limits of speed and performance on the mound, solidifying their place among the all-time greats in the game.
