Rapid Robert

Cleveland right-hander Bob Feller is fast.

Really fast. But just how fast?

Feller answers that question 77 years ago tonight as his fastball is clocked at a record 98.6 mph in an exhibition prior to the Indians’ game at Washington’s Griffith Stadium.

The New York Yankees’ Atley Donald holds the previous record of 94.7 mph.

Feller then goes out that same night in 1946 and pitches a complete game against the Washington Senators, but loses 5-4.

Based on the technology today compared to 1946, Feller’s speed on this night in Washington is later recalibrated to being closer to 104 mph.