Aroldis Chapman Throws Fastest Pitch in MLB This Season

Boston, MA – Aroldis Chapman made headlines on Wednesday night, throwing the fastest pitch in Major League Baseball this season. The 37-year-old closer for the Boston Red Sox unleashed a record 103.8 miles-per-hour fastball during the ninth inning of the team’s 6-4 victory over the Texas Rangers.

Chapman entered the game looking to secure the win for Boston. His first pitch, however, was a solo home run by Josh Jung, marking a tense moment for the team. After regaining his composure to record a groundout and a flyout, he faced Blaine Crim with the game on the line.

With Crim representing the tying run, Chapman threw his powerful pitch that not only set a new franchise record but also became the fastest pitch recorded since pitch tracking began over a decade ago. Crim managed to foul off several of Chapman’s pitches before ultimately striking out, sealing the game for the Red Sox and earning Chapman his fifth save of the season.

The Red Sox have had a rocky start to the season with a 20-19 record. Despite these challenges, Chapman has shown consistent performance, boasting a 2.19 ERA and 13.1 strikeouts per nine innings. His return to the mound was crucial for the team, especially following a shaky 1-5 record in previous games.

Chapman, who signed a one-year, $10.75 million deal with the Red Sox during the offseason, has been a key asset in their bullpen. He has already broken Boston’s fastest pitch record three times this season, solidifying his reputation as one of the best closers in the league.

The Red Sox will face the Rangers again on Thursday afternoon, with first pitch scheduled for 1:35 p.m. ET, as they look to build on their recent success.