Karlyn Pickens Breaks Fastest Pitch Record in Softball History

OKLAHOMA CITY, Oklahoma — Karlyn Pickens, a pitcher for Tennessee, recently made history by throwing the fastest recorded pitch in college softball at 79.4 miles per hour. This remarkable feat occurred just one day after she first broke the record, clocking in at 78.2 mph during a game against Arkansas on March 24.

Pickens, who is now a junior, has evolved into one of the sport’s standout players. She first caught the attention of coach Dana Fussetti when Pickens was only 10 years old, showcasing her potential with impressive mechanics and speed. Fussetti predicted that Pickens would become the hardest-throwing pitcher in softball history. “If your daughter sticks with softball, she will be the hardest throwing pitcher in the history of the sport,” Fussetti told Pickens’ father, Phil.

In her latest performance, Pickens faced Nebraska and again demonstrated her dominant pitching skills. She threw a fastball that shattered a bat during the game, further displaying her power on the mound. Tennessee won the game 1-0, securing a spot in the Women’s College World Series.

After completing the game, Pickens expressed her motivation came from her teammates, emphasizing the collective goal of achieving more this season. “I was just relying on my teammates, knowing that this team is not done,” she stated. “We’ve got a lot more to accomplish this year.”

Tennessee’s softball program is looking to clinch its first national title, having reached the Women’s College World Series for the ninth time. Pickens had an exceptional outing, striking out ten and only allowing two hits during the game.

The rising star is expected to continue her stellar performance as the team heads into the series with Oklahoma, Texas Tech, and others. With expectations of further speed increases in her pitches, Fussetti confidently predicts that Pickens could reach 80-81 mph before she graduates.