A fastball is a type of pitch in the game of baseball that is thrown with maximum speed. It is one of the most common pitches used by pitchers and is designed to reach the batter quickly, making it harder to hit. Fastballs can vary in speed and can be thrown in different styles, such as the four-seam fastball and the two-seam fastball, each with its own characteristics. The speed of a fastball can exceed 100 miles per hour, depending on the pitcher's strength and technique. Pitchers like Nolan Ryan and Aroldis Chapman are known for their exceptional fastball speeds. A well-thrown fastball can be a crucial part of a pitcher's strategy, often setting up other pitches to confuse the batter.