Home / Sports / Whisenhunt's 97 MPH Fastball Shocks Baseball
Whisenhunt's 97 MPH Fastball Shocks Baseball
21 Feb
Summary
- Carson Whisenhunt's fastball unexpectedly reached 97 mph in spring training.
- Mechanical adjustments, not intensity, are credited for the velocity jump.
- He previously debuted in MLB in July 2025, with a 5.01 ERA.
Carson Whisenhunt, a promising left-handed pitcher for the San Francisco Giants, recently showcased an unexpected surge in velocity during spring training. His fastball was clocked at 97 mph on the scoreboard at Scottsdale Stadium, a notable increase from his 2025 season average of 92.6 mph.
Whisenhunt himself expressed surprise at the velocity readings, stating he wasn't expecting to reach 97 mph. He attributes the significant gain to mechanical adjustments, explaining that he is now more upright and less reliant on sinking into his back hip, which he believes previously limited his velocity. This newfound speed could significantly impact his prospects for the upcoming season.
The pitcher made his Major League debut on July 28, 2025, appearing in five games with a 2-1 record and a 5.01 ERA over 23.1 innings. Prior to that, he had a successful minor league season in 2025, pitching across multiple levels and posting a combined 9-5 record with a 4.43 ERA. He was originally selected by the Giants in the second round of the 2022 MLB draft.
Whisenhunt's performance in 2025 saw him ascend through the minor league system, starting in Class-A and reaching Double-A. He pitched a full season in 2024, spending most of his time at Triple-A Sacramento, where he recorded a 3-5 record and a 5.17 ERA. His consistent development and recent velocity spike position him as a potential contender for a spot on the Giants' opening day roster.
