Rapid Robert

  Bob Feller having his pitches clocked on this day in 1946

Cleveland right-hander Bob Feller is fast during his Hall of Fame career.

Really fast.

But just how fast?

Feller answers that question 78 years ago tonight as his fastball is clocked at a record 98.6 mph in an exhibition prior to the Indians’ game against Washington at Griffith Stadium.

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

Feller then goes out on this same night in 1946 and pitches a complete game against the Washington Senators but loses 5-4 before a Tuesday night crowd of 30,051.

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.