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Need to Know: Oneil Cruz’s Record-Breaking Night
| Highlight | Details |
|---|---|
| New Statcast Record | Oneil Cruz launched a 122.9 mph home run—hardest-hit ball ever recorded in the Statcast era. |
| Momentum Shift | His solo blast cut the Pirates’ deficit to 3–1 in the third inning vs. the Brewers. |
| Rising Star | Cruz now has 9 homers and continues making noise in the Pirates’ lineup in 2025. |
On May 23, 2025, Oneil Cruz made MLB history with one swing of the bat. He rocketed a solo home run to right field, clocked at 122.9 mph off the bat—the hardest-hit ball in Statcast history. The third-inning blast came during a heated matchup between the Pittsburgh Pirates and the Milwaukee Brewers and instantly sliced the deficit to 3–1. Fans at PNC Park erupted as Cruz’s historic hit flew 442 feet into the night.
This moment wasn’t just another home run—it was a defining statement. Oneil Cruz continues to prove why he’s one of baseball’s most electrifying stars.
Oneil Cruz Rewrites the Power Standard
At 6’7″, Cruz already stands out on the field. But on this night, his bat did all the talking. The 122.9 mph exit velocity from his homer broke the previous Statcast-era record and separated him from every other slugger in MLB.
Let’s put it in perspective:
| Player | Exit Velocity (mph) | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Oneil Cruz | 122.9 | 2025 |
| Previous Best | 122.4 | 2022 |
| League Average | ~89–91 | 2025 |
This wasn’t a one-off. Cruz has consistently shown that he can generate elite power. But this swing—flawless in timing, speed, and mechanics—put him in a category all his own.
Why This Homer Was More Than Just a Stat
The moment couldn’t have come at a better time. The Pirates were trailing early, the energy was low, and the Brewers seemed to be in full control. Then, Cruz stepped in—and everything changed.
Here’s what made the moment special:
- Game Changer: It shifted the mood and momentum instantly.
- Precision: Not just power—he kept perfect form and timing.
- Against the Odds: Came against a high-velocity Brewers starter.
This wasn’t just a stat-padding shot in a blowout. It was a momentum-swinging rocket that reminded fans and analysts alike: Oneil Cruz is the real deal.
Cruz in 2025: A Star On the Rise
As of late May, Cruz’s 2025 season is trending in the right direction. He’s showing growth in multiple areas—power, contact, discipline, and speed. Here’s where he stands:
- Batting Average: .247
- Home Runs: 9
- RBIs: 158
- Stolen Bases: 11
- Strikeouts: Down 15% from last year
Cruz isn’t just smashing balls over the fence—he’s maturing as a hitter. He’s shortening his swing when needed, getting on base more often, and becoming a threat every time he steps to the plate.
His growth as a team leader is becoming just as visible as his power.
What’s Next for Oneil Cruz and the Pirates?
With players like Cruz leading the charge, the Pirates are slowly but surely transforming into playoff contenders. The energy is back in Pittsburgh. Fans are filling seats, kids are wearing Cruz jerseys, and pitchers across the league are taking notes.
Oneil Cruz is no longer a breakout candidate. He’s a superstar in the making.
As summer rolls in and the season heats up, keep an eye on him. There’s every reason to believe more fireworks are coming—on and off the field.
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