PHOENIX, USA — On an electric Tuesday night, San Diego Padres reliever Mason Miller showcased his impressive arm.
Arizona Diamondbacks outfielder Lourdes Gurriel Jr. responded with equal power, lighting up the stadium.
In the eighth inning, Gurriel sent a blazing 103.9 mph fastball from Miller soaring into the left-field stands for a dramatic two-run homer, leveling the game at 5-5. This remarkable hit marked the hardest pitch resulting in a homer since MLB implemented pitch tracking back in 2008.
“It just happened,” Gurriel remarked through an interpreter, acknowledging the challenge. “It’s not that easy.”
This two-homer performance wasn’t a fluke; Gurriel also launched a two-run shot earlier in the first inning.
Miller, who joined the Padres from the Athletics at last week’s trade deadline, consistently throws over 100 mph and reached a peak of 104.2 mph on his fastest pitch that night.
“That was a loud hit,” noted D-backs manager Torey Lovullo. “We know Mason Miller has an incredible arm. He’s not afraid to challenge hitters with his speed, and our batters were ready for it.”
Ultimately, the Padres clinched a 10-5 victory in 11 innings.