The rise of 100 mph pitching velocity in Major League Baseball (MLB) is a fascinating phenomenon that has captivated fans and analysts alike. This article explores the journey of pitchers striving to reach this milestone, from high school athletes to professional players, and the impact of technology and training methods on their success. The narrative begins with Bubba Chandler, a three-sport athlete, who set a goal to reach 100 mph as a high school pitcher. Inspired by the likes of Jose Fernandez, Chandler's journey reflects the broader trend of pitchers aiming for this velocity milestone. The article highlights the increasing prevalence of 100 mph pitchers in the MLB, with 82 pitchers reaching this velocity in the previous season and 35 already surpassing it this season. The allure of 100 mph lies in its prestige and the challenge it presents to hitters, who struggle to distinguish between 99 mph and 100 mph pitches. The article delves into the technological advancements in pitching labs, equipped with Trackman units and ultra-high-speed cameras, which have revolutionized velocity training. These labs enable trainers to optimize players' velocity, and the offseason is now a period of intense training for professional pitchers. The starter-to-reliever bump is another strategy that has contributed to the rise of 100 mph pitchers, allowing them to unleash their full potential without the need to ration their arm. The article showcases success stories like Cam Schlittler, who gained nearly 5 mph in his average fastball velocity in his first season after being drafted, and his remarkable performance in the major leagues. Additionally, the article mentions the emergence of young talents like Cole Kuhn and Striker Pence, who have reached triple digits in their fastballs, and the increasing number of high school and college pitchers hitting 100 mph. The article concludes by emphasizing the hard work and dedication required to achieve this velocity milestone, with Chandler's own journey serving as an example of the 'village' of support and training needed to reach such heights. The article also acknowledges the contributions of ESPN journalists in gathering and reporting the information.
