Is the Average Pitch Speed in the MLB Increasing?

Yes, the average pitch speed in Major League Baseball (MLB) has been increasing over the years. This trend has been particularly noticeable in recent seasons, with pitchers consistently throwing harder than in the past. Several factors contribute to this upward trend:

Training and Conditioning

Advances in sports science training techniques and conditioning programs have allowed pitchers to enhance their strength and velocity. Modern training regimens focus on enhancing overall athleticism, endurance, and power, leading to faster and more consistent pitches.

Technology

Tools like high-speed cameras and radar guns can help pitchers analyze their mechanics and optimize their performance. These technologies provide real-time feedback, enabling pitchers to make adjustments and improve their pitch delivery.

Specialization

Teams often employ specialists such as relief pitchers who can focus solely on throwing hard for short periods, contributing to higher average velocities. These specialists build powerful arms designed specifically for high-speed pitches, making them an integral part of modern baseball strategy.

Increased Focus on Velocity

There is a growing emphasis on velocity in player development. Coaches prioritize speed over other pitching skills, recognizing the psychological impact of high-speed pitches on batters. The increased focus on velocity has led to a significant increase in the average fastball velocity across the league.

According to recent data, as of 2023, the average fastball velocity in MLB was around 93-94 mph, reflecting this upward trend.

Are We Seeing the Fastest Possible Pitches?

Several factors make it challenging to determine the true maximum pitch speed in baseball history:

Average vs. Maximum Speeds

While it is clear that more pitchers are throwing in the 90s mph range, based on both technology measuring and hitters' remarks, it's important to note the role of different systems:

1. Different Systems: In 2017, MLB switched from a technology called PITCHf/x to Statcast. PITCHf/x measured a pitch's speed about five feet further from where Statcast does. Statcast measures the speed as it comes out of a pitcher's hand.

2. Incline from Release Point to Home Plate: Even at the standard distance of 60 feet, 6 inches from the pitching rubber to home plate, a pitcher's release point is likely around 55 feet from home plate or slightly less. The ball slows more the closer it is to the plate. Therefore, no pitch is crossing home plate at 100 mph or even 96 mph.

The Fastest Pitches

While Aroldis Chapman holds the record for the fastest pitch at 105 mph in 2010, this doesn't necessarily mean the hardest thrower is throwing harder today compared to five years ago. There are several reasons for this:

Protection Gear: With more pitchers throwing in the 90s, there is a higher likelihood of catching a ball on the chin. Modern protective gear, such as extended flaps on batting helmets, shows just how valuable these innovations are. Variability in Measurement: As with most things in sports, if you vary how you measure the result, the outcome will likely change. Different systems and technologies can provide different readings.

The key takeaway is that while the average pitch speed is increasing, the question of who is throwing the hardest is more nuanced. The evolution of baseball technology and protective gear continues to shape how we measure and understand pitch speeds in the game.