Willians Astudillo gets batters out throwing 46 mph pitches, a breakdown

Minnesota Twins utility player Willians Astudillo, known as "La Tortuga" for his slow-paced, unorthodox playing style, takes the mound in relief during a 2018 game. Astudillo struggles with his velocity, hitting 86 mph on the radar gun, but gives up six runs on two home runs in a difficult outing. Fast forward to 2021 and Astudillo finds himself back on the mound, this time determined to employ a different strategy. He begins by effortlessly firing pitches in the low 50s mph to Los Angeles Angels superstar Mike Trout, who can only manage a weak groundout. Astudillo continues to confound hitters, mixing in a devastating 46 mph "lollipop" that leaves the batters completely baffled. "This is scarier than 100," one hitter is heard muttering, as Astudillo's off-speed offerings dance and dive, completely overwhelming the opposition. The Twins' broadcast team marvels at Astudillo's ability to get major league hitters out with such slow, deliberate pitches, noting that "you and I and everyone else can get major league hitters out except that guy, he definitely can't." Astudillo efficiently retires the side in order, needing just seven pitches to record three outs. His masterful performance showcases his adaptability and keen understanding of how to exploit hitters' timing and expectations. Rather than try to overpower them with velocity, Astudillo has embraced his unique skill set, using guile, deception and impeccable control to bamboozle the opposition. This impressive outing by the unorthodox Astudillo is a testament to the value of finding creative ways to succeed, even when traditional methods may not work. His ability to adjust his approach and dominate hitters with such unconventional pitches is a testament to his baseball IQ and the importance of embracing one's individual strengths. As Astudillo trots off the mound, the broadcast team can't help but marvel at his masterful performance, leaving fans and fellow players alike to wonder just how this unique pitcher has managed to make major league hitters look so utterly helpless.