The world of baseball is abuzz with the question of whether pitchers have another gear in them, a hidden third gear that could push them beyond the 100-mph mark. This debate is particularly relevant in light of recent performances, such as those of Mason Miller, Aroldis Chapman, Seth Hernandez, and Jacob Misiorowski, who have all reached triple digits on the radar gun. But what does this mean for the future of the sport, and what are the implications for pitchers and hitters alike? In my opinion, the answer lies in the balance between velocity and durability, and the role of strength and conditioning in pushing the limits of what the human body can achieve.
The first thing that stands out is the rapid increase in average fastball velocity over the past decade. In 2008, the average velocity of a four-seam fastball was 91.9 mph, but by 2026, it had risen to 94.6 mph. This trend is particularly notable in the first half of 2026, where 1,018 pitches were thrown at 100 mph or more, compared to just 726 in 2025. What makes this even more fascinating is the fact that this increase in velocity has coincided with a growing number of pitchers reaching the 100-mph mark. In 2010, Chapman's 105.8 mph pitch was a one-off rarity, but by 2025, 82 pitchers had topped 100 mph.
One of the key factors in this trend is the emphasis on strength and conditioning. Players like Chapman, Miller, and Misiorowski put a high priority on weight room and training room work, recognizing that consistency and preparation are essential for maintaining elite levels of velocity. However, this increased emphasis on strength and conditioning also raises questions about the durability of pitchers. The human body is only capable of so much, and the pressure to push the limits of velocity can lead to arm fatigue and other injuries.
This is particularly relevant for starters like Burns, Misiorowski, and Hernandez, who have to account for the number of innings they pitch and the physical toll that takes on their bodies. As Burns noted, "I think those guys, they’re so in tune with their body and their mechanics that it’s easier. You definitely feel it the next day, you’re pretty sore." This highlights the importance of finding a balance between velocity and durability, and the need for pitchers to be in tune with their bodies and their mechanics.
In my opinion, the question of whether pitchers have another gear in them is not just a matter of physics, but also of psychology and culture. The pressure to throw harder and harder can create a cycle of obsession and burnout, where pitchers feel compelled to push the limits of their bodies in order to maintain their status and success. This raises a deeper question about the role of velocity in the sport, and the need for a more balanced approach to pitching that takes into account the physical and mental health of players.
In conclusion, the question of whether pitchers have another gear in them is a fascinating and complex one, with implications for the future of the sport. While the human body is capable of incredible feats, it is also limited, and the pressure to push the limits of velocity can lead to injuries and burnout. As a fan and observer of the sport, I am intrigued by the possibilities and challenges that lie ahead, and I am eager to see how pitchers and hitters adapt to this evolving landscape.
