How Extension Drives Velo

According to Statcast average extension on fastballs is one of the biggest determinates in both velocity AND perceived velocity (how fast a pitch appears to a hitter)

Perceived Velocity is equally if not more important than actual velocity; this year the top extension in MLB was likely Cy Young winner Jacob Misiorowski at 7.6, which made his perceived velocity a nearly unhittable 102.6

The reality is that height is a massive factor in extension and thus both velocity and perceived velocity

There’s a reason the average MLB pitcher is 6’4”.

The good news though is that extension also greatly increases with strength: most pitchers don’t need yet another mechanics tweak or arm slot adjustment, but rather a drastic increase in their athleticism and explosive strength!

-Fenske