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These, gentlemen, are my take on the fastest of the fast of the 20th century. I’d have added Steve Dalkowski at position number #3, just behind Bob Feller and Nolan Ryan, except that the question limits this to MLB pitchers. In the 21st century, Aroldis Chapman stands out. I’d have added him also just behind Feller and Ryan. His clocked times are hair-raising, but he never had to do it for 9 innings as a starter. When dealing with a position where arm strength is the overriding concern, the easiest position to match up with a pitcher is his battery mate, catcher. Obviously, in order to throw out potential base stealers and keep the opposition honest, the man behind the plate needs a strong arm and quick release. Historically speaking, some have converted to pitching with mixed results. The most recent success story that comes to mind on the big league level is Cardinal closer, Jason Motte. Motte went to Iona College, where he was a very good defensive catcher with extraordinary superior arm strength. Motte, however, was a weak hitter. Rather than waste the rare tool, the Cardinals drafted Motte with the express intent of converting him to the mound. Lo and behold, it worked and Motte enjoyed great success as a dominant closer before injury took its toll.
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