Major League Baseball Pitchers Set New Record for Fastball Velocity
Major League Baseball pitchers have set a new record for fastball velocity, with four-seam fastballs averaging 94.8 mph, continuing a trend of increasing speed for the sixth consecutive season.
Rochester, NY, September 29, 2026 —
In Major League Baseball, pitchers have achieved a new benchmark in speed, recording a record average velocity for four-seam fastballs. This ongoing trend signifies a consistent escalation in pitching velocity across the league.
The latest data indicates that four-seam fastballs thrown by MLB pitchers have reached an average speed of 94.8 miles per hour. This figure represents a new record, underscoring a sustained evolution in the physical capabilities and training methodologies employed by professional baseball players.
This marks the sixth consecutive season in which pitching velocity has shown an increase. The continuous upward trend suggests that the pursuit of higher fastball speeds has become a prominent strategic element in the game. Factors contributing to this sustained increase may include advancements in biomechanical analysis, specialized strength and conditioning programs, and the development of pitching techniques aimed at maximizing velocity while maintaining control.
The consistent rise in velocity can have implications for offensive strategies, as hitters adapt to facing faster pitches. It also highlights the increasing demands placed on pitchers’ arms and the importance of injury prevention and management within the sport. While specific details regarding the precise methodology for calculating this average or the distribution of velocities across all pitchers were not provided, the overall trend of increasing fastball speed continues to shape the dynamics of Major League Baseball.
Story summarized from the original created by RONALD BLUM, Associated Press on www.rochesterfirst.com, see more information here.
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