Oneil Cruz Throws 105.2 MPH on Video for MLB's 2nd-Fastest OF Assist in Statcast Era

Pittsburgh Pirates outfielder Oneil Cruz unleashed a rocket from the outfield on Sunday, firing a 105.2 MPH throw to gun down Seattle’s J.P. Crawford at home plate.

The throw marks the second-hardest recorded outfield assist since Statcast began tracking in 2015, trailing only Aaron Hicks’ 105.5 MPH cannon for the Yankees back in 2016, per the Associated Press.

The throw also saved Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes from giving up a run, preserving the score and adding another highlight to Cruz’s growing defensive résumé.

Mariners shortstop Crawford was caught off guard by the velocity of the throw, convinced he had the run easily. He didn’t even attempt to slide before the ball arrived well ahead of him at home plate.

On the offensive side, Cruz has recorded 15 home runs, 35 RBIs and a .206 batting average this season, continuing to contribute on both sides of the ball with his power and defensive arm.