Los Angeles Buzzing After Epic Rookie Performance
Los Angeles is buzzing after witnessing an incredible feat at the Angels’ home turf! The rookie sensation, Ben Joyce, just about set the baseball world on fire with a jaw-dropping 105.5 mph fastball, combining speed and precision that had fans out of their seats. What a way to showcase talent, right?
The Amazing Pitch
Joyce’s blazing fastball didn’t just earn him a strikeout against the Dodgers’ utility man, Tommy Edman, it also put him dangerously close to smashing the record for the fastest pitch in MLB history. Can you believe he was just 0.3 mph shy of tying Aroldis Chapman’s legendary record of 105.8 mph? Recently, the broadcast radar gun even clocked the pitch at a whopping 106 mph! Next time someone tells you baseball is boring, just remind them of that moment!
Breaking Records in More Ways Than One
Incredible as it sounds, this wasn’t just another fast ball in a long season. Joyce’s pitch is now officially the fastest recorded strikeout pitch in MLB history! This kid has some serious heat! But don’t think this phenomenon just appeared out of nowhere. Even back in college with the Tennessee Volunteers, Joyce was already earning a reputation as a flamethrower. It’s pretty clear he has always had the ability to throw gas, but consistent command has been the key to unlocking his potential.
The Journey So Far
Fast forward to 2024, and it seems like Joyce is really finding his stride. Sure, there were bumps in the road, but his ability to handle that speed with class is something Angels fans have been waiting to see. It’s been a satisfying surprise for a rookie who has worked so hard to get to this point.
A Complex Record
Now, let’s hit the brakes and talk about how records are tracked in the MLB. It’s a bit of a mixed bag if we’re honest. The advanced Statcast technology that’s been the go-to measuring system for pitches has only been around since 2015. Before that, MLB had to rely on the older and less reliable PITCHf/x system (from 2006 to 2015), and even further back, radar guns that could be wildly inaccurate at times. So when fans talk about the fastest pitcher ever, it can get a little tricky to crown a champ, as legends like Nolan Ryan were likely shortchanged during the radar gun era. It adds a fun layer of debate for fans and analysts alike!
Big Moments and Missed Opportunities
Despite all the excitement surrounding Joyce’s record-breaking moment, the game didn’t exactly go the Angels’ way. The enthusiasm about his pitch quickly dimmed when Mookie Betts hit a 104.4 mph ball in extra innings, leading to the Dodgers claiming a solid 6-2 win over the Angels. Sometimes it feels like you can throw the hardest ball in the world, but if you can’t get the team win, it doesn’t matter much. But hey, it’s early days in the season, and there’s plenty of time for the Angels to rally back!
Wrapping Up
So, Los Angeles, keep your eyes on Ben Joyce. This rookie is making waves, and who knows – maybe one of these days we’ll be talking about him not just as the guy with speed, but as one of the greatest pitchers in MLB history. It’s all part of the thrilling ride of baseball, and we can’t wait to see what’s next!
