The Hardest Hit Baseball in the MLB: Who is the Leader?
Baseball is one of America’s favorite pastimes and the Major League Baseball (MLB) is the pinnacle of the sport. With hitters trying to hit the ball as hard and as far as possible, the MLB is a showcase of the best that the sport has to offer. But who has the hardest hit ball in the MLB?
What is the Hardest Hit Ball in the MLB?
The hardest hit ball in the MLB is the one that is struck with the highest exit velocity (EV). Exit velocity is the speed at which the ball leaves the bat after contact. The higher the exit velocity, the harder the ball is hit. It can be said that the harder the ball is hit, the more likely it is to result in a hit, or even a home run.
Players Who Have Recorded the Highest Exit Velocity
The MLB keeps track of the highest exit velocities recorded. Here is a list of the players who are at the top of the leaderboard in terms of the highest EV:
- Giancarlo Stanton: Stanton recorded the highest EV in the MLB with a whopping 121.7 mph! This was recorded on May 6th, 2017.
- Aaron Judge: Judge recorded the second highest EV with a 121.1 mph. This was recorded on October 1st, 2017.
- Khris Davis: Davis recorded the third highest EV with a 120.7 mph. This was recorded on April 17th, 2018.
- Miguel Sano: Sano recorded the fourth highest EV with a 120.5 mph. This was recorded on April 15th, 2016.
- Nelson Cruz: Cruz recorded the fifth highest EV with a 120.3 mph. This was recorded on August 16th, 2016.
Factors That Affect Exit Velocity
There are various factors that can affect a player’s exit velocity. These include the player’s swing mechanics, the weight of the bat, the type of bat, and the type of pitch. A good swing and the right type of bat can increase a player’s exit velocity, while a bad swing and the wrong type of bat can decrease it.
How Does Exit Velocity Relate to Home Runs?
Exit velocity is an important factor when it comes to hitting home runs. The higher the exit velocity, the further the ball can travel. In order for a ball to leave the park, it must have an exit velocity of at least 110 mph. However, most home runs are hit at a higher velocity.
How Does Exit Velocity Relate to Batting Average?
Exit velocity is also an important factor when it comes to hitting for average. The higher the exit velocity, the more likely a ball is to find a gap or get past an infielder and result in a hit.
How Does Exit Velocity Relate to Power Hitting?
Exit velocity is the key to power hitting. The higher the exit velocity, the more power a hitter can generate. A good combination of exit velocity and launch angle can result in a long home run.
Summary of Who Has the Hardest Hit Ball in the MLB
Giancarlo Stanton, Aaron Judge, Khris Davis, Miguel Sano, and Nelson Cruz are the players who have recorded the highest exit velocities in the MLB. Exit velocity is an important factor when it comes to hitting home runs, batting average, and power hitting. A good swing and the right type of bat can increase a player’s exit velocity, while a bad swing and the wrong type of bat can decrease it.
Conclusion
The hardest hit ball in the MLB belongs to Giancarlo Stanton with a 121.7 mph exit velocity. However, there are other players who have also recorded high exit velocities and can be considered contenders for the title of “hardest hitter”. Exit velocity is an important factor when it comes to hitting for power and average, and the higher the exit velocity, the more likely a ball is to find a gap or get past an infielder and result in a hit.