A record breaking season for the fastest pitcher in softball
In the world of collegiate softball, few achievements resonate as profoundly as setting a new record for the fastest pitch ever thrown. In 2025, Tennessee Lady Vols pitcher Karlyn Pickens not only achieved this remarkable feat but also delivered a season that redefined excellence in the sport.
On May 24, 2025, during the Super Regional matchup against Nebraska, Pickens shattered her own NCAA record by hurling a pitch at a staggering 79.4 miles per hour. This surpassed her previous record of 78.2 MPH set earlier that season against Arkansas, and eclipsed the longstanding 77 MPH mark held by former Lady Vol Monica Abbott since 2012.
The significance of this achievement extends beyond the numbers. A pitch traveling at 79.4 MPH from the 43-foot distance of a softball mound is equivalent to a baseball pitch exceeding 100 MPH, a testament to Pickens’ unparalleled velocity and precision.
Pickens’ record-breaking pitch was the culmination of a season marked by dominance and consistency. Throughout the 2025 campaign, she posted a 1.03 ERA, ranking second nationally, and amassed 270 strikeouts, placing her sixth in the country. Her performance was instrumental in Tennessee’s success, earning her the SEC Pitcher of the Year title for the second consecutive year.
Her contributions were not limited to individual accolades. Pickens played a pivotal role in leading the Lady Vols to their ninth Women’s College World Series appearance, underscoring her status as one of the most formidable pitchers in collegiate softball history.
Pickens’ journey to becoming the fastest pitcher in softball history is a testament to her relentless work ethic and dedication to her craft. Since her freshman year at Tennessee, she has consistently improved, refining her mechanics and enhancing her physical conditioning to achieve unprecedented velocity.
Her commitment to excellence is reflected in her accolades, including being named Softball America’s Pitcher of the Year in 2025 and securing a spot as a top-ten finalist for the USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year for two consecutive years.
Pickens’ record-breaking achievements have not only elevated her status but have also had a profound impact on the sport of softball. Her performances have garnered national attention, inspiring a new generation of players to push the boundaries of what is possible on the mound.
Moreover, her success has highlighted the evolving nature of the game, where advancements in training, biomechanics, and athleticism are enabling pitchers to achieve speeds and performances previously thought unattainable.
As Pickens continues her career, the softball community eagerly anticipates her future endeavors. With her combination of speed, skill, and determination, she is poised to further cement her legacy as one of the greatest pitchers in the history of the sport.
Her journey serves as an inspiration, demonstrating that with dedication and perseverance, athletes can redefine the limits of their sport and achieve greatness.
Karlyn Pickens’ record-breaking season is a landmark moment in the history of collegiate softball. Her achievements have set a new standard for excellence and have left an indelible mark on the sport, inspiring future generations to aim higher and push the boundaries of possibility.
