How Fast Does a MLB Pitcher Throw?
The average speed of a Major League Baseball (MLB) pitcher is between 88-93 miles per hour (mph). However, the fastest pitch ever recorded was thrown by Aroldis Chapman in 2010, clocking in at an impressive 105.1 mph.
It is not just the speed of the pitch that is important to a successful pitch. A pitcher’s accuracy and the amount of movement on the pitch are also critical components. A pitcher must be able to control the ball and consistently hit their target in order to be successful.
Average Speed of a MLB Pitcher
The average speed of an MLB pitcher is between 88-93 mph. This is the range that most pitchers fall into, and it is considered the “sweet spot” for a pitcher. This speed is just fast enough to be effective, but not so fast that it’s too difficult to control.
Factors that Impact Speed
There are several factors that can impact a pitcher’s speed. These include:
- Arm Strength – A pitcher’s arm strength is the most important factor in determining how fast they can throw. Stronger arms generate more power, which leads to faster pitches.
- Mechanics – A pitcher’s mechanics are also important. Throwing mechanics can help generate more power and make a pitcher’s delivery more efficient, which can lead to higher speeds.
- Conditioning – A pitcher’s conditioning plays a role in their speed. Pitchers who are in better physical condition are able to generate more power and throw faster.
Fastest Pitch Ever Recorded
The fastest pitch ever recorded was thrown by Aroldis Chapman in 2010. It clocked in at an impressive 105.1 mph.
Chapman’s pitch was so fast that it broke the record for fastest pitch ever recorded. The previous record was held by former MLB pitcher, Joel Zumaya, who threw a 104.8 mph pitch in 2006.
Evolution of the Fastest Pitch
The fastest pitch ever recorded has increased over time. In the late 1960s, the fastest pitch ever recorded was a 94 mph fastball thrown by Bob Feller.
In the 1970s, the fastest pitch was 103 mph, thrown by Nolan Ryan. In the 1980s, the fastest pitch was 102 mph, thrown by Tom Seaver.
In the 1990s, the fastest pitch was 103 mph, thrown by Randy Johnson. In the 2000s, the fastest pitch was 104 mph, thrown by Joel Zumaya.
Finally, in 2010, the fastest pitch was 105 mph, thrown by Aroldis Chapman.
Average Speed of Different MLB Pitchers
The average speed of different MLB pitchers can vary. Some pitchers are known for throwing harder than others.
For example, Aroldis Chapman is known for throwing the hardest among all MLB pitchers. He averages around 100 mph on his fastball and has hit 105 mph on multiple occasions.
On the other end of the spectrum, knuckleballers like Steven Wright and R.A. Dickey are known for throwing much slower than the average MLB pitcher. They typically throw in the range of 70-80 mph.
Impact of Speed on Performance
The speed of a pitcher’s pitches can have a major impact on their performance. Faster pitches are generally harder to hit, as they are harder to track and react to.
However, the speed of the pitch is only part of the equation. A pitcher must also have good control and movement on their pitches in order to be successful. A pitcher who throws hard but does not have good control or movement will not be successful.
Benefits of Throwing Harder
There are several benefits to throwing harder. First, faster pitches are harder to hit, as they are harder to track and react to. Second, a faster pitch can lead to higher strikeout numbers, which can in turn lead to more wins for the pitcher’s team.
Third, faster pitches can lead to more pop-ups and ground balls, which can be beneficial for the defense. Finally, a pitcher who throws harder can get more respect from opposing batters, which can lead to more success.
The Pitch Clock
In 2019, the MLB introduced a pitch clock to speed up the game. The clock limits the amount of time a pitcher has between pitches, in an effort to keep the game moving along.
This has led to some pitchers throwing faster, as they have less time to think and prepare for their next pitch. This has led to an increase in the average speed of MLB pitchers.
Conclusion
The average speed of an MLB pitcher is between 88-93 mph. However, the fastest pitch ever recorded was 105.1 mph, thrown by Aroldis Chapman in 2010.
Several factors can influence a pitcher’s speed, including arm strength, mechanics, and conditioning. The MLB has also implemented a pitch clock, which has led to an increase in the average speed of MLB pitchers.
Ultimately, speed is only part of the equation for a successful pitch. A pitcher must also have good control and movement on their pitches in order to be successful.