Padres' Mason Miller Reclaims Top Spot on MLB Velocity Leaderboard

The flamethrowing closer has been dominant to start the 2026 season.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 4:10pm

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An abstract, energetic painting in vibrant neon colors depicting the explosive power and movement of a dominant baseball pitcher's pitching motion, capturing the raw athleticism and velocity of the sport.The electric velocity of Padres closer Mason Miller has him dominating the league and reclaiming his throne atop the MLB's velocity leaderboard.San Diego Today

San Diego Padres closer Mason Miller has reclaimed the top spot on the 2026 MLB velocity leaderboard, overtaking Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Edgardo Henriquez. Miller hit 103.4 mph on a pitch in a recent game against the Colorado Rockies, surpassing Henriquez's 103.2 mph fastball earlier this season. Miller has been lights-out to start the year, not allowing a run in 7.1 innings while racking up 19 strikeouts.

Why it matters

Miller's ability to consistently throw triple-digit fastballs makes him one of the most dominant closers in baseball. His electric stuff has helped the Padres get off to a strong start this season as they look to return to the playoffs.

The details

Miller initially lost the top spot on the velocity leaderboard to Henriquez, but regained it with his 103.4 mph heater against the Rockies. The 27-year-old right-hander hasn't allowed a run in his last 28.2 innings dating back to last season, the longest active scoreless streak in the majors. He's also just six innings away from tying the Padres' franchise record for the longest scoreless streak. Miller has been adding a changeup to his arsenal this season to give hitters a different look alongside his overpowering fastball and slider.

  • On Thursday, Miller threw a 103.4 mph pitch against the Rockies.
  • Miller hasn't allowed a run since August 5, 2025.

The players

Mason Miller

The 27-year-old right-handed closer for the San Diego Padres, known for his triple-digit fastball velocity.

Edgardo Henriquez

A flamethrowing pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers who previously held the top spot on the 2026 MLB velocity leaderboard.

Craig Stammen

The manager of the San Diego Padres.

Jason Adam

A star reliever for the San Diego Padres who recently returned from the injured list after undergoing quad tendon surgery.

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What they’re saying

“He's got an electric fastball and slider, and now he's breaking out a changeup. It talks to, great players want to get better. They want to keep getting better. He's added that to his repertoire, and maybe that gives him a little bit more of an advantage against left-handed hitting.”

— Craig Stammen, Padres Manager

What’s next

The Padres will look to continue their strong start to the season as they host the Colorado Rockies and Seattle Mariners over the next week. The return of reliever Jason Adam should provide a major boost to the team's elite bullpen.

The takeaway

Mason Miller's ability to consistently hit triple digits with his fastball makes him one of the most dominant closers in baseball. His continued development, including the addition of a changeup, has the Padres' bullpen poised to be a major strength as they aim to return to the playoffs.