Lourdes Gurriel Jr. makes MLB history with fastest home run hit
- Lourdes Gurriel Jr. hit a 103.9 mph fastball for a home run during the game against the San Diego Padres.
- He recorded a total of four RBIs and two runs scored but his team lost 10-5.
- This historic achievement highlights Gurriel's hitting skill and the Diamondbacks' ongoing struggles in the season.
In a Major League Baseball game on August 6, 2025, Arizona Diamondbacks designated hitter Lourdes Gurriel Jr. achieved a remarkable milestone by hitting the fastest tracked pitch ever for a home run. The historic event took place during a loss to the San Diego Padres at Chase Field in Phoenix. Gurriel stepped up to the plate with a notable 2-for-5 performance, which included four RBIs and two runs scored, further solidifying his reputation as an exceptional hitter despite his team's defeat. The pivotal moment unfolded in the eighth inning when Gurriel faced Padres relief pitcher Mason Miller. After falling behind in the count, Gurriel managed to connect with a blazing 103.9 mph fastball, showcasing his remarkable skill in hitting high-velocity pitches. This achievement marks a significant moment in the pitch tracking era, breaking the previous record for the fastest pitch hit for a home run. Historically, power hitters have often struggled with fast offerings of this magnitude, making Gurriel's success even more notable. Gurriel's performance did not go unnoticed, as his hitting prowess was acknowledged by observers and analysts alike. Comments from the game emphasized that when Gurriel is in form, he becomes a formidable opponent at the plate. His ability to produce runs was particularly crucial in a game that saw the Diamondbacks unable to recapture their winning momentum after having previously won three games in a row. Despite Gurriel's impressive hitting statistics this season, with him now tallying 14 home runs and 56 RBIs, the Diamondbacks faced challenges that ultimately prevented them from securing a victory against a strong Padres team. The Padres capitalized on their offensive momentum in the 11th inning, scoring five runs to cement their 10-5 win. This defeat leaves the Diamondbacks struggling in the standings, currently sitting in fourth place within the National League West and trailing the division-leading Los Angeles Dodgers by a significant margin. The game demonstrated both the excitement of individual performance in the league and the ongoing struggles of the Diamondbacks as they seek to improve their position in the playoff race.