Chicago White Sox dominating with velocity this season

Velocity has become king in Major League Baseball. It is rare to see a team that does not have a conveyer belt of flamethrowers coming out of the bullpen, or even have a starting pitcher or two that can reach triple digits with their fastball. Then there are the Chicago White Sox, who have taken that philosophy to a completely different level.

The White Sox pitching staff threw their 6000th pitch of more than 95 MPH this year on Thursday. Meanwhile, no other team in the majors has even reached 4600 pitches with that velocity.

Chicago White Sox ruling in the velocity department

That commitment to velocity was notable as the White Sox remade their bullpen. Liam Hendriks had been a dominant closer in Oakland and has continued that form in Chicago. Craig Kimbrel was added at the trade deadline, adding even more firepower to the latter innings.

The White Sox commitment to increasing their velocity did not come solely from external additions. Both Michael Kopech and Garrett Crochet have averaged over 95 MPH with their fourseam fastballs, while Aaron Bummer is averaging 95.5 MPH with his sinker. Having five pitchers capable of bringing that type of heat can make a major difference late in the game.

But it is not just the bullpen that is providing that velocity. The White Sox rotation has done its part as well. Dylan Cease and Carlos Rodon are both averaging more than 95 MPH on their fastballs, making it possible for the opposition to see a steady diet of heat throughout the game without any letup.

This approach has certainly worked. The White Sox are a lock to reach the playoffs, having posted an 83-63 record heading into Friday. That bullpen has the potential to be a buzzsaw in the postseason, a game changing group that could turn the tide of any series.

The Chicago White Sox made a commitment to improving their pitching staff this year. It can be seen with their impressive velocity.