Walter Johnson's Pitching Speed and Physical Attributes

Walter Johnson, one of the greatest pitchers in baseball history, was renowned for his incredible fastball. Exact measurements of his pitching speed are difficult to determine due to the era in which he played. However, it is widely believed that he could throw a fastball in the range of 90 to 100 miles per hour, with some accounts suggesting he could reach up to 100 mph, which was extraordinary for his time.

Measuring His Pitching Speed

While decades have passed since his last game, recent tests provide insight into his remarkable skills. According to a munitions lab's test, Walter Johnson's fastball reached a speed of 91 feet per second, which translates to approximately 91.63 mph. This measurement was taken as the ball passed through the machine after crossing the plate. Radar guns, which today are used to measure pitch speeds, would likely record a slightly higher speed of 98-99 mph as the ball left his hand.

His Physical Attributes

Walter Johnson was 6 feet 1 inch (185 cm) tall, standing a half foot above the average American male height of 5 feet 7 inches in his era. His combination of height and powerful pitching significantly contributed to his legendary status in baseball history. His playing weight was 200 pounds, a substantial figure for his time, further enhancing his physical presence on the field.

His Record-Breaking Career

Walter Johnson was a record-breaker in many aspects of baseball. He won 20 games in 10 consecutive years and another 20-game season later. During his career, he struck out 1,413 batters and hit 24 home runs. In one season, he batted over .400 in 97 at-bats, a feat that speaks to his all-around skill as a player.

Estimating His Peak Speed

While there is no way of knowing his exact pitching speed with any accuracy, baseball experts estimate that Johnson's fastball topped off at 92 mph. This speed was significantly faster than the mid-80s that most pitchers at the time reportedly threw. His 92 mph fastball was a league apart, making him the fastest pitcher of the Dead Ball Era.

Conclusion

Walter Johnson's combination of physical attributes and incredible pitching skills made him a key figure in baseball history. While precise measurements of his speed are elusive, his speed in the 90 to 100 mph range, and even the 92 mph estimate, places him among the greatest pitchers ever to play the game.