Pitch velocity keeps rising with MLB pitchers

Key Points:

• Justin Verlander exemplifies the trend of narrowing velocity ranges among MLB pitchers, with his four-seam fastball velocity range shrinking from 12.9 mph in 2011 to just 5.9 mph in 2024.
• MLB pitchers are collectively increasing their minimum fastball velocity significantly more than their maximum velocity, leading to a condensed velocity range; the average minimum velocity has risen 5.1 mph since 2008, while maximum velocity increased only 1.2 mph.
• This shift reflects a league-wide emphasis on consistently high velocity, but it raises injury concerns, as MLB's 2024 report links chasing max-effort velocity to increased pitching injuries.
• Coaches and players advocate for balancing velocity with command and efficiency, emphasizing the importance of pitch control and sustainable effort levels to reduce injury risk and extend careers.
• Veterans like Verlander and others acknowledge the difficulty of maintaining high velocity without injury, suggesting that strategic pacing and varied pitching styles may be key to long-term success.