Velocity rules in October. There have been a record 255 pitches of 100 mph or faster this postseason, up from 105 last year and the previous high of 169 in 2022. Right-handed relievers averaged 96.2 mph with their four-seam fastballs through the World Series opener, an increase from 95.8 mph last postseason and 93.3 mph when Major League Baseball started tracking in 2008. A study released by MLB last offseason concluded rising velocities and emphasis on maximum effort are likely causing more pitcher injuries. MLB decided last month to prohibit scouting of many high school and college prospects during the offseason to mandate recovery time.