Karlyn Pickens sets record for fastest pitch in softball history
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.
Top 10
- 1Breaking
Shedeur Sanders
Not selected in NFL Draft 1st round
- 2New
Picks by conference
SEC, Big Ten dominate NFL Draft
- 3
Joel Klatt calls out
'Trash' Shedeur Sanders narrative
- 4
10 Best Available Players
After NFL Draft 1st Round
- 5Hot
ESPN roasted
For Shedeur Sanders empty couch
Get the On3 Top 10 to your inbox every morning
By clicking "Subscribe to Newsletter", I agree to On3's Privacy Notice, Terms, and use of my personal information described therein.
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:
Karlyn Pickens embraces new leadership role for Tennessee
Tennessee vs. Georgia Softball: Key Takeaways & Series Breakdown
