Every morning, the We Love Baseball crew reviews the Nastiest Pitches from the previous day’s games. If you see something you think should be included here be sure to tweet @PitcherList to let us know. Or, if you’re a PL+ Member and part of our Discord, shout it out in the Nastiest Pitches channel.
Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s Splitter
Priming up for the postseason, Yoshinobu Yamamoto went deeper once again in his latest start to earn his seventh win of the season – the Japanese star struck out six across five solid frames. This lovely splitter to dispose of Michael Toglia was a real treat.
Reynaldo López’s Slider
Returning from the injured list at a pivotal time for Atlanta, Reynaldo López struck out nine all thanks to his signature slider, which bamboozled the Royals all game. This vicious 88 mph hard slider was too good for Maikel Garcia.
Raisel Iglesias‘ Four-Seam Fastball
The perfect rising 97 mph heater from Atlanta closer Raisel Iglesias struck out Salvador Perez in a big spot in the ninth inning. Atlanta went on to get a crucial win in extra innings. A huge performance from Iglesias.
Shane Baz’s Curveball
This season has been a true taster of what is to come from promising Rays starter Shane Baz. His fastball and curveball mix again worked well today as he registered seven strikeouts and he earned his fourth win of the season.
Paul Skene’s Four-Seam Fastball
A sensational two-inning cameo from Paul Skenes as he struck out the Yankees’ big names before heading to the offseason with a phenomenal 11-3 record with a 1.96 ERA, 0.95 WHIP, and 173 Ks. This 100 mph heater with extra movement jelly-legged Juan Soto. Elite!
Yuki Matsui’s Splitter
Protecting a five-run lead in the ninth inning, Padres reliever Yuki Matsui struck out two with aplomb to ensure San Diego march into the postseason in form. Josh Bell couldn’t help himself but nibble at this split-finger fastball with bite.
Mason Miller’s Slider
Three strikeouts from devastating sliders by A’s closer Mason Miller, whose astonishing campaign has been a joy to watch. Cal Raleigh had no answer to this hard slider in the ninth.
Emerson Hancock’s Changeup
Finishing off the season strongly, Emerson Hancock makes his second appearance in a week in this article thanks to this vicious changeup that moves beautifully away from lefty Lawrence Butler.