Detroit Left-Hander Makes MLB history

On May 25, 2025, Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal cemented his place in baseball lore with a record-breaking 102.6 mph fastball to seal a complete-game shutout against Cleveland. This ninth-inning missile to strike out Gabriel Arias became the fastest recorded pitch in a complete game since MLB introduced advanced tracking in 2008.

Masterclass in Modern Pitching

Skubal's 94-pitch gem (72 strikes) featured:

• 13 strikeouts with only 2 hits allowed
• 26 swings-and-misses on his devastating slider/changeup combo
• Consistent 97-98 mph velocity peaking at 102.6 mph

The performance drew comparisons to Greg Maddux's legendary efficiency while surpassing Justin Verlander's 2011 no-hit speed.

Late-Game Dominance

Skubal saved his best for critical moments:

• 7th-inning 100+ mph fastballs to fan Kyle Manzardo
• Final pitch velocity exceeding his previous career high by 2.8 mph
• Second-fastest regular season pitch since Yordano Ventura's 102.7 mph in 2016

Tigers' Pitching Resurgence

This historic outing highlights Detroit's rotation strength:

• AL-leading 2.49 ERA for Skubal
• 34-20 team record heading into June
• Emerging Cy Young candidacy

Manager A.J. Hinch called it "the blueprint for complete games in modern baseball," while analysts praise Skubal's unique blend of power and precision.

New Chapter in MLB History

While Maddux's 109 complete games remain unmatched, Skubal's performance proves elite endurance still exists in today's bullpen-heavy game. As Detroit eyes its first playoff run in over a decade, this fireballing lefty has become the franchise cornerstone they've needed - one triple-digit pitch at a time.