SF Giants prospect Camilo Doval throws 104.5 mph pitch

One of the SF Giants most exciting pitching prospects put up some head-turning highlights this week for the Sacramento River Cats. Right-handed pitcher Camilo Doval has always had the ability to light up radar guns with his fastball, but according to a Tweet from the official Giants player development account, Doval threw a pitch 104.5 mph in his outing on Tuesday, which would be one of the fastest pitches in league history.

SF Giants prospect Camilo Doval eclipsed 104 mph with his fastball.

Doval was ranked the 31st best prospect in the organization heading into the season, but an impressive spring training performance earned him an early-season promotion to the MLB roster. While he got off to a strong start, Doval finished his first big-league stint with a 7.59 ERA in 13 appearances. The flamethrowing righty recorded 13 strikeouts across 10.2 innings pitched but surrendered six walks and four home runs.

Doval has elite closer upside. He works out of a funky three-quarters delivery that makes it difficult for hitters to pick up his already elite pitch arsenal. Doval frisbees in a high 90s four-seamer that registers strong spin rates and a 88-92 mph cutter/slider with nasty late horizontal movement. Early in his career, Doval had major fluctuations in his velocity, but he has begun maintaining premium velocity over the past year. It appears that he’s found an even higher gear at Triple-A.

With the trade deadline on the horizon, plenty of scouts were surely present to watch Doval’s outing on Tuesday. The Giants may envision him as their long-term closer, but several other teams may target him in a deal before tomorrow’s trade deadline. Regardless of where he ends up, he has tantalizing potential.

The SF Giants already had plenty of reason to be excited about relief pitching prospect Camilo Doval. After throwing a pitch more than 104 mph, though, it’s even more exciting to dream about his future at Oracle Park.