Skip to main content

Karlyn Pickens sets record for fastest pitch in softball history

Screenshot 2024-07-31 at 7.46.34 PMby: Brady Vernon03/25/25BradyVernon
Screenshot 2025-03-24 at 8.38.35 PM
Crash Kamon/Softball America

Tennesse ace and reigning SEC Softball Pitcher of the Year Karlyn Pickens set the goal in 2025 to throw the fastest pitch in softball history. The flamethrower did it on Monday. She hit 78.2 MPH on a sixth-inning pitch against Arkansas, breaking the record held by former Lady Vol Monica Abbott.

“I am close to beating or tying the record of fastest pitch. So that’s definitely on the radar, but I just want to keep it rolling,” Pickens told Softball America earlier this year. “I have done a lot of successful and great things so far, (I) want to keep my consistency going. I want to make sure that I keep improving something each year, elevating my game with a new pitch and getting better at hitting locations.”

Pickens had thrown a 77 MPH pitch earlier in 2025, tying Abbott, who threw the pitch in a National Pro Fastpitch game. Much different for a junior in college to continue to get stronger. So maybe 80 MPH is the next goal.

Pickens’ outing versus Arkansas

The righty was dominant in relief as Tenneseee salvaged the series finale against Arkansas 3-2. Pickens entered in the third inning to maintain the Lady Vols’ one-run lead. She threw 4.1 hitless innings, striking out six and earning her 11th win of the season.

Pickens’ next goal will be to beat the four-time defending champions, Oklahoma Sooners when Tennessee travels to Norman this upcoming weekend.

More from Softball America:

SEC Power Rankings

Karlyn Pickens embraces new leadership role for Tennessee

Tennessee vs. Georgia Softball: Key Takeaways & Series Breakdown

You may also like