In Major League Baseball (MLB), pitch speed has always symbolized a pitcher's prowess, captivating fans and creating historical milestones. Since Statcast technology was introduced in 2015, we’ve been able to accurately measure and rank the fastest pitches. Though older legends are rumored to have achieved remarkable speeds, this article dives into recorded stats, celebrating the elite few who have left their mark on baseball history with pitches exceeding 105 mph. Here are the ten fastest pitches measured during the Statcast era.
| Rank | Player | Speed | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Aroldis Chapman | 105.8 mph | September 24, 2010 |
| 2 | Aroldis Chapman | 105.7 mph | July 18, 2016 |
| 3 | Ben Joyce | 105.5 mph | September 3, 2024 |
| 4 | Aroldis Chapman | 105.4 mph | July 18, 2016 |
| 5 | Aroldis Chapman | 105.2 mph | July 22, 2016 |
| 6 (tie) | Aroldis Chapman | 105.1 mph | August 7, 2024 |
| 6 (tie) | Aroldis Chapman | 105.1 mph | August 2, 2016 |
| 6 (tie) | Aroldis Chapman | 105.1 mph | July 22, 2016 |
| 6 (tie) | Aroldis Chapman | 105.1 mph | July 18, 2016 |
| 10 (tie) | Jordan Hicks | 105 mph | May 20, 2018 |
| 10 (tie) | Aroldis Chapman | 105 mph | July 23, 2016 |
| 10 (tie) | Jordan Hicks | 105 mph | May 20, 2018 |
Aroldis Chapman holds the record for the fastest recorded pitch in MLB history with his 105.8 mph throw. The Cuban left-hander delivered this record-breaking pitch in 2010, playing for the Cincinnati Reds. Known for his explosive power, Chapman has earned a reputation as one of the most intimidating pitchers due to his consistent 100+ mph pitches.
Six years after his first record-breaking throw, Chapman delivered another blistering pitch at 105.7 mph. His ability to maintain top speed over the years demonstrates his dedication to perfecting his craft and his incredible athletic prowess. Pitching for the New York Yankees in this season, Chapman continued to cement his legacy as one of MLB’s fastest.
A new star emerged in the pitch-speed race with Angels’ reliever Ben Joyce, who threw an astonishing 105.5 mph fastball against the Los Angeles Dodgers. This pitch, which struck out Tommy Edman, was not only one of the fastest pitches on record but also marked the fastest recorded strikeout pitch in recent years, showcasing Joyce’s remarkable power and precision.
Chapman makes another appearance with his 105.4 mph fastball, also thrown on July 18, 2016, for the Yankees. This game showed Chapman at his peak, pushing the limits of speed and putting him on the leaderboard multiple times. His 2016 season, in particular, is remembered for his extraordinary speed and precision.
Chapman’s relentless drive and intense training routines allowed him to reach 105.2 mph, his third fastest pitch in recorded history. This pitch also happened in 2016, adding to his impressive record-breaking season with the Yankees. Known for his high strikeout rates and powerful throws, Chapman remains a name synonymous with fast pitching.
In 2024, Chapman returned to the leaderboard with a 105.1 mph pitch, proving his longevity in MLB’s high-speed arena. Despite the demands of maintaining such power as a veteran pitcher, Chapman continues to showcase his dominance in pitching speed, earning yet another spot among the fastest pitches.
Chapman’s talent for extreme speeds persisted through the 2016 season, as he clocked in another 105.1 mph pitch on August 2. The Yankees' ace kept fans on the edge of their seats, knowing each pitch could potentially set a new record. This consistency made 2016 one of Chapman’s most iconic seasons.
Adding yet another entry at 105.1 mph on July 22, 2016, Chapman’s unmatched power enabled him to throw multiple pitches that season, each exceeding 105 mph. This level of speed requires exceptional physical conditioning and control, which Chapman demonstrated consistently during his career peak.
Once again, Chapman’s July 18, 2016, performance was a testament to his status as a top MLB speed pitcher. That day saw him repeatedly approach and surpass 105 mph, showing his ability to stay at the top of his game with each throw.
St. Louis Cardinals’ right-hander Jordan Hicks joined the elite circle with a 105 mph pitch in 2018. Known for his impressive fastball and sinker combination, Hicks has been one of the few to rival Chapman in the speed arena. His 105 mph pitch earned him a place among the fastest recorded pitches and gave the Cardinals a promising fireballer in their bullpen.
Chapman’s dominance in this leaderboard is a testament to his powerful arm and unique pitching style. His 2016 season with the Yankees was filled with incredible feats that few pitchers could rival. However, it’s essential to recognize the few, like Ben Joyce and Jordan Hicks who have managed to join this exclusive club, adding their names to the list of baseball’s elite.
Give Your Feedback