In the world of Major League Baseball, the question of whether or not pitchers are throwing harder has been a long-standing debate. On one hand, some observers argue that pitchers are throwing harder than ever, while others believe that the data does not back up this claim. This article will explore the evidence for and against the claim that pitchers are throwing harder, looking at data from the past few decades of MLB history.
History of Pitching Velocity
The first recorded instance of a pitcher throwing over 100 miles per hour was in 1974, when the Los Angeles Dodgers’ Bill Stoneman threw a fastball clocked at 100.7 mph. Since then, pitchers have continued to increase their velocity and the average fastball velocity has steadily risen.
Current Average Fastball Velocity
The average fastball velocity in the Major Leagues has been on the rise since the early 2000s. In 2020, the average fastball velocity was 92.2 mph, which is the highest it has ever been. This marks a steady increase from the average fastball velocity of 90.7 mph in 2010.
Causes of Increased Pitching Velocity
There are a number of factors that may be contributing to the increased pitching velocity in the Major Leagues. These include improved conditioning and strength training, improved pitching mechanics, and a shift in the balance of power towards pitchers.
Conditioning and Strength Training
In recent years, pitchers have been utilizing improved conditioning and strength training techniques to improve their fitness and throwing velocity. Pitchers have access to a variety of sophisticated training methods, such as weighted balls and high-tech machines, which can help them build strength and increase their throwing velocity.
Pitching Mechanics
Pitching mechanics have also been evolving in recent years, as pitchers have been working to find ways to maximize their throwing velocity. This includes changes in arm angle, release point, and grip, among other things.
Shift in the Balance of Power
Over the past few decades, there has been a shift in the balance of power towards pitchers. This has been driven by changes in the rules, such as the introduction of the designated hitter and the use of larger strike zones. These changes have given pitchers an advantage, which has resulted in increased pitching velocity.
Analysis of Pitch Velocity Statistics
As mentioned above, the average fastball velocity has been increasing steadily over the past few decades. However, when looking at the statistics, it is important to consider the context of the data. For example, it is important to consider the number of pitches thrown, the number of innings pitched, and the type of pitches thrown.
Number of Pitches Thrown
When looking at the data, it is important to consider the number of pitches that have been thrown. Over the past few decades, the total number of pitches thrown in the Major Leagues has increased significantly. This means that pitchers are throwing more pitches than ever before, which can contribute to an increase in average fastball velocity.
Number of Innings Pitched
The number of innings pitched can also have an impact on the average fastball velocity. Since the introduction of the five-man rotation in the mid-1980s, pitchers have been throwing fewer innings per start. This means that pitchers are throwing fewer pitches per game, which can contribute to an increase in average fastball velocity.
Type of Pitches Thrown
Another factor that can contribute to the increased average fastball velocity is the type of pitches that are being thrown. In recent years, pitchers have been throwing fewer off-speed pitches and more fastballs. This means that pitchers are throwing more pitches at higher velocities, which can contribute to an increase in average fastball velocity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it appears that pitchers are indeed throwing harder than ever. The data shows that the average fastball velocity has been steadily increasing since the early 2000s, and there are a number of factors that may be contributing to this increase. Improved conditioning and strength training, improved pitching mechanics, and a shift in the balance of power towards pitchers are all likely playing a role in the increased pitching velocity that we are seeing in Major League Baseball.