The star pitcher Aroldis Chapman struck out Japanese sensation Shohei Ohtani, widely regarded as one of the best pitchers in the world, with a blistering 103 miles per hour (MPH) fastball on Wednesday. This took place during a game where the Pittsburgh Pirates triumphed over the Los Angeles Dodgers with a score of 10-6.
It was a historic day for the lefty from Holguín, not only for sending Ohtani back to the bench with the second-fastest strikeout of the current MLB season. The "Cuban Missile" holds the record for the two fastest pitches of the 2024 season: 104 MPH and 103.8 MPH. The first pitch is also the fastest in the history of the Pittsburgh Pirates, surpassing the 103.7 MPH thrown by Mason Miller of the Oakland Athletics. Both pitches were delivered to Dominican batter Teoscar Hernández.
The Cuban reliever, who took the mound in the top of the seventh inning, threw a total of eight pitches, six of which exceeded 100 MPH, and struck out two of the five batters he faced. With his 104 MPH pitch, he achieved the fastest pitch in the history of his current team, the Pittsburgh Pirates. Additionally, it marked the fastest pitch of the current MLB season, breaking the record previously held by Mason Miller of the Oakland Athletics.
Aroldis signed a one-year contract with the Pirates for $10.5 million in January, after winning the World Series with the Texas Rangers last season. This marks the 14th season in the Major Leagues for the legendary 36-year-old player. Throughout his career, Chapman has saved 321 games and has earned two World Series rings, the other being with the Chicago Cubs in 2016.
Aroldis Chapman’s Record-Breaking Performance
Here are some frequently asked questions about Aroldis Chapman's recent performance and career highlights.
How fast was Aroldis Chapman's fastest pitch in 2024?
Aroldis Chapman's fastest pitch in 2024 was clocked at 104 MPH, making it the fastest in the history of the Pittsburgh Pirates.
How many career saves does Aroldis Chapman have?
Aroldis Chapman has saved 321 games over his 14-season career in Major League Baseball.
Which teams has Aroldis Chapman won World Series titles with?
Aroldis Chapman has won World Series titles with the Texas Rangers in 2023 and the Chicago Cubs in 2016.