Arizona Fall League Opens 34th Season With Record-Breaking Velocity
The Arizona Fall League launched its 34th iteration on Oct. 3, giving baseball’s top prospects a platform to showcase their skills after the conclusion of the minor league season, mlb.com reported. Despite an opening week featuring an extra handful of games, 12 hitters produced at least a 1.000 OPS and 17 pitchers did not allow an earned run.
Jarlin Susana Dominates With 104 MPH Fastball
Salt River right-handed pitcher Jarlin Susana opened his Fall League campaign by throwing a fastball clocked at 103.4 mph, just days after reaching 104 mph during the Triple-A National Championship Game on Sept. 26. Later in the outing, the 22-year-old set a league record with a 103.8 mph four-seamer, surpassing previous marks tracked since 2015. Paired with a 70-grade slider registering 2,900 to 3,000 RPMs, Susana struck out eight batters while allowing three runs, only one earned, across 5 2/3 innings.
Welbyn Francisca Sets Early Hitting Pace
Surprise shortstop Welbyn Francisca claimed the top single-game offensive performance of the circuit’s first week by going 5-for-5 on Opening Night. The 20-year-old switch-hitter drove in three runs, hit a home run, and stole a base while narrowly missing a second home run that settled as a ground-rule double. Francisca leads the league in batting average, slugging percentage, and OPS at 1.563.
Aidan Miller and Tekoah Roby Return From Injuries
Surprise third baseman Aidan Miller posted a .500 batting average and a .700 on-base percentage while drawing seven walks, effectively answering questions regarding a back injury that sidelined him for nearly the entire minor league regular season. Meanwhile, Peoria right-hander Tekoah Roby struck out six batters across three no-hit frames in his first start after missing the entire 2026 season recovering from Tommy John surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which player recorded the highest individual OPS during the opening week of the Arizona Fall League?
Surprise shortstop Welbyn Francisca led all hitters through the first week with a 1.563 OPS, bolstered by a 5-for-5 performance on Opening Night.
How fast did Jarlin Susana throw during his first Fall League outing?
Salt River pitcher Jarlin Susana hit 103.4 mph on his very first pitch and later set a league record with a 103.8 mph four-seamer.
What were Antonio Anderson’s key offensive statistics for Mesa during the first week?
Antonio Anderson batted .368 with a 1.237 OPS, hitting two home runs and driving in seven runs, highlighted by a 115.2 mph grand slam.
Related reading