Speed in College Baseball

I'm a high school junior who plays baseball and is considering playing in college. Can anyone provide insights about the speed of pitching in college? Who are some of the hardest throwers currently?

The speed of pitching can vary a lot depending on the level of college baseball you're playing at, whether it's NCAA Division I, II, III, or NAIA. However, taking NCAA Division I as a potential benchmark, most pitchers there regularly clock in at 85-95 mph, with top pitchers even exceeding that.

In terms of the hardest throwers in college currently, it's important to note that this changes from year to year, since several of the most impressive arms may leave for the MLB draft. However, a reliable indicator could be the players being considered for the Golden Spikes Award, which is given annually to the best amateur baseball player in the country. Those in high consideration for this accolade usually have well-regarded pitching arms.

A player's velocity is essential, but it's far from the only thing that college coaches will look at. They will often focus just as much, if not more, on your control, jump, pitch selection, and mental toughness. Keep in mind too that college baseball is about more than just raw pitching speed. You'll be facing hitters who have seen fast pitching before and are able to adjust.

One final thing to mention is that playing college sports is a significant time commitment. Balancing the demands of your sport with your academic work can be challenging, but it can also be a deeply rewarding experience. Best of luck with your baseball and college journeys!