Aroldis Chapman becomes fastest pitcher to 500 strikeouts
Cincinnati Reds closer Aroldis Chapman recorded his 500th career strikeout on Sunday, setting a major-league record for fewest innings required to reach the 500-strikeout mark.
Chapman needed just 292 innings to accomplish the feat, breaking the previous record of 305 innings set by San Diego Padres closer Craig Kimbrel earlier this season.
Chapman pitched two scoreless innings in Sunday’s 5–3 loss to the Indians, striking out five batters. He also allowed two hits and a walk. It was his first outing of more than one inning this season.
Cincinnati lost the game after Pedro Villareal allowed two runs in the 11th inning.
Chapman has converted 18 of his 19 save opportunities this season and has a 1.69 ERA. His fastball averages 99.6 mph, according to PITCHf/x, 1.6 mph faster than any other pitcher in baseball.
- Dan Gartland
