On Sunday, Pirates center fielder Oneil Cruz made a sensational play at the plate, throwing a 105.2 mph ball to retire Seattle’s J.P. Crawford, marking the second-hardest thrown ball for an outfield assist since Statcast began tracking in 2015. The play, which occurred during the Pirates’ game against the Mariners, demonstrated Cruz’s elite arm strength and defensive capabilities.
Cruz’s throw, which reached a speed of 105.2 mph, was the second hardest recorded for an outfield assist in Statcast’s history. The previous record was set by a player in 2017, and Cruz’s performance highlights how pitchers are increasingly being evaluated not just for their pitching but for their overall contributions on the field.
This play has drawn attention from baseball analysts and fans alike, underscoring the importance of defensive play in the modern game. While the primary focus remains on offensive performance, such plays add to the excitement of the game and can influence team dynamics and fan engagement.