Stanton Blasts MLB’s Hardest Hit Ball of 2024 Season, Extends Yanks Lead over Astros

The New York Yankees’ star player, Giancarlo Stanton, has once again displayed his impressive batting skills, hitting the hardest ball of the 2024 Major League Baseball (MLB) season against the Houston Astros. During the third inning of their matchup, Stanton connected with a 1-2 curveball thrown by Astros rookie starter Spencer Arrighetti, sending the ball flying towards left field at lightning speed. The ball clearned the fence, resulting in a solo home run for Stanton, making it a 5-1 game in favor of the Yankees. Stanton’s home run followed closely behind another one hit by his teammate Aaron Judge in the previous at-bat, and earlier in the game, Juan Soto hit a home run as well. After analyzing the statistics using Statcast technology, it was revealed that Stanton’s latest home run traveled at a staggering speed of 119.9 miles per hour (mph), making it the fastest hit ball in the league this season. This achievement follows Stanton’s 121.7 mph homer against the Texas Rangers in 2018 and his 121.3 mph homer against the Washington Nationals in July 2020. Despite his impressive track record, Stanton has struggled with injuries in recent seasons, and his slower running style has drawn criticism from fans. Nonetheless, the Yankees are counting on Stanton’s power to help them win games, as pitchers often fear his ability to hit home runs and turn the tide of a game.