dailyloe.com – Taj Bradley delivered a standout performance for the Minnesota Twins in their second game of the 2026 season. The starting pitcher showcased elite velocity in the team’s lone win against the Baltimore Orioles. This strong start offers a bright spot in the Twins’ early 1-3 record.
Bradley’s fastball averaged 97.4 miles per hour during the outing. This marked an increase of over one mile per hour from his 2025 average of 96.2 mph. He also topped out at 99.6 mph, a Twins starting pitcher record in the Statcast era.
The pitcher has previously thrown over 100 mph twice in his career with Tampa Bay. More record-breaking pitches are plausible for the 2026 season. Bradley is a young pitcher, having just turned 25 years old on March 20th.
Despite its speed, Bradley’s fastball has been a below-average pitch historically. Last season, its run value was minus-five, placing it in the 20th percentile. His breaking pitches have been significantly more successful for him.
His curveball was among baseball’s best pitches in 2025. Opponents managed a meager .082 batting average against it. The pitch also generated an excellent whiff rate of 37.6 percent.
Bradley’s split-finger fastball was also a highly effective weapon last season. This combination of elite velocity and potent secondary pitches suggests major potential. His development will be a key storyline for the Twins in 2026.[]
Source: Puckett's Pond
