Full Breakdown
Jacob Misiorowski’s 105.5 mph Fastball Sets New Benchmark for Starting Pitchers
6/27/2026, 8:53:20 AM
Record-Breaking Pitch and Game Summary
On June 26 2026 at American Family Field, Milwaukee Brewers right-hander Jacob Misiorowski opened a start against the Chicago Cubs with a 0-2 fastball that registered 105.5 mph to leadoff center-fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong. The pitch was fouled back, and Misiorowski struck out the next batter. He completed six innings, allowing one run on a Seiya Suzuki homer, issuing four walks, and finishing with 107 pitches—including a 102.8 mph strikeout of Ian Happ with the bases loaded. Milwaukee won 6-2.
Background & Context: Fastest Pitches in the Statcast Era
Since Statcast began tracking velocity in 2008, the two fastest recorded pitches belong to Boston Red Sox reliever Aroldis Chapman (105.8 mph in 2010, 105.7 mph in 2016). Los Angeles Angels reliever Ben Joyce posted 105.5 mph in 2024, tying Misiorowski’s June 26 effort for the third-fastest pitch ever. Misiorowski previously held the starter record with a 104.5 mph fastball against the Philadelphia Phillies earlier in the month (some outlets reported 104 mph).
Key Figures
Data & Statistics
- Fastball velocity: 105.5 mph (fastest by a starter, tied third-fastest overall).
- Season ERA: 1.45 (third-lowest through a pitcher’s first 16 starts in the past 50 years).
- Strikeouts: 146 (major-league lead).
- Pitch count: 107 pitches, 12 fastballs in the first inning, all >=102 mph.
- Walks: 4; Hits allowed: 2 (including one homer).
Official Statements & Responses
Misiorowski described the pitch as “cool” and noted a slip in his front foot that nevertheless produced the velocity. He said he “doesn’t need to focus on speed” and that “if it doesn’t win a ballgame it doesn’t matter.” Manager Pat Murphy acknowledged Misiorowski’s talent but warned that “there’s a limit” and stressed the importance of locating pitches and preserving health. Both emphasized that velocity alone does not guarantee success.
Criticism & Opposition
Murphy’s comments highlight a broader concern that an over-reliance on raw speed could compromise command and durability. The Brewers’ coaching staff has stressed the need for Misiorowski to develop off-speed offerings and maintain consistent zone control, suggesting that the record-setting pitch must be integrated into a balanced repertoire.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on Misiorowski’s prior starter-record velocity: ESPN reports a previous best of 104 mph on June 12, while the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel and SI cite 104.5 mph set earlier in the month. The discrepancy does not affect the June 26 record but illustrates inconsistent reporting of his earlier benchmark.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It's cool,” Misiorowski said after the Brewers 6-2 win. “I think I slipped a little bit on that pitch. My front foot slid out from under me.” — Jacob Misiorowski, Pitcher
- “Where does it stop?” Pat Murphy said with his own smirk. “I think there’s a limit there.” — Pat Murphy, Manager
- “Science says you can hit 108. Someone eventually is going to hit it. If that's me, cool. I don't think that's something I need to focus on. Speed is cool but if it doesn't win a ballgame it doesn't matter.” — Jacob Misiorowski, Pitcher
- “I definitely think it's possible,” he responded. “Science says you can hit 108. Someone eventually is going to hit it. If that’s me, cool.” — Jacob Misiorowski, Pitcher
Why It Matters / Impact
The 105.5 mph fastball redefines the velocity ceiling for starting pitchers, challenging scouting norms and contract valuations. It also places Misiorowski among an elite, historically small group of pitchers capable of triple-digit speed, prompting discussions about training methods, injury risk, and the balance between power and precision.
What’s Next
Milwaukee is reportedly evaluating a long-term extension for Misiorowski, who remains under team control through the 2031 season. He is slated to start his next regular-season game against the St. Louis Cardinals, where the Brewers will likely monitor his pitch mix and workload to sustain performance while mitigating injury risk.
