Baseball is a sport that is beloved by many due to its long history, strategic complexity and sheer athletic challenge. The excitement of watching a batter hit a home run or a pitcher throw a no-hitter is a thrill that unites fans around the world. But which baseball has been hit the hardest?
The Debate Over the Hardest Hit Baseball
Throughout the history of Major League Baseball, there have been numerous debates over the hardest hit baseball. Some cite the famous home runs of Babe Ruth, Hank Aaron, and Barry Bonds as being the hardest hit. Others point to the numerous line drives that have been clocked at over 120 mph by current players such as Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton.
The truth is that it is difficult to accurately measure the exact speed of a hit ball, as the exact speed of the ball is often unknown. However, there are ways to measure the approximate speed of a hit ball. One of the most common methods is by using the “exit speed” statistic, which uses the speed of a ball as it leaves the bat to determine the approximate speed of the ball when it was hit.
Exit Speed and Ball Exit Velocity
Exit speed and ball exit velocity are two terms that are often used to measure the approximate speed of a hit ball. Exit speed is the speed of the ball as it leaves the bat, while ball exit velocity is the speed of the ball as it reaches the outfield wall. While the former is more accurate in determining the approximate speed of a hit ball, the latter is often more reliable for measuring the approximate distance of a hit ball.
Using these two measurements, it is possible to determine the approximate speed of the hardest hit baseball. According to the MLB, the highest recorded exit speed of a ball is held by Giancarlo Stanton, who hit a ball at an exit speed of 121.7 mph in 2017. This is the highest recorded exit speed of any ball hit in the MLB, and is likely the hardest hit baseball in the history of the sport.
The Impact of Technology on Hard Hit Baseballs
In recent years, technology has allowed for the more accurate measurement of the speed of a hit ball. This has allowed for a more precise and accurate determination of the speed of a hit ball, and has allowed for players to hit harder than ever before.
For example, in 2015, the MLB introduced the Statcast system, which uses a combination of radar technology and high-definition cameras to accurately measure the speed of a hit ball. This technology has allowed for a more precise measurement of the speed of a hit ball, and has allowed players to hit harder than ever before.
The Impact of a Hard Hit Baseball
The impact of a hard hit baseball can be felt both in the stands and on the field. On the field, a hard hit ball can often be difficult for the defense to handle, resulting in extra bases or home runs. In the stands, a hard hit ball can often provide an exciting moment for the fans, as the sound of a ball hitting a bat at a high speed is often thrilling for spectators.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the hardest hit baseball in the history of Major League Baseball is likely held by Giancarlo Stanton, who hit a ball at an exit speed of 121.7 mph in 2017. This record is likely to stand for some time, as technology continues to make it easier to accurately measure the speed of a hit ball. No matter who the player is, a hard hit baseball is sure to bring excitement to the field and the stands.