In 2025, the MLB's first-pitch batting average has risen to .338, reflecting increased success when batters swing early, a trend driven by faster pitches and strategic adjustments.

Pitchers like Kevin Gausman and Bryan Woo are throwing strikes early in counts, influencing hitters' tendencies and contributing to the higher swing rate on first pitches.

This shift may be a response to increased velocity, varied pitch shapes, and the pitch clock introduced in 2023, which collectively pressure batters to be ready earlier.

This evolution in batting strategy is part of an ongoing dynamic adjustment in baseball, with players and pitchers continuously adapting to new speeds, pitches, and rules.

Player performance on first pitches has fluctuated, with Pete Crow-Armstrong posting a 1.150 OPS early in the season, which declined to .778 after the All-Star break as pitchers' strategies evolved.

The overall trend signifies a strategic shift in offense, responding to advancements in pitching velocity, effectiveness, and the game's changing pace.

Historically, first-pitch swinging declined from 30% in 2001 to 26% in 2010, but has recently rebounded, driven by faster pitches and strategic changes in approach.

Star outfielder Nick Castellanos attributes his high first-pitch swing rate (56%) to being instinctively prepared to hit good pitches early, rather than a deliberate strategy.

Top players like Castellanos, Bryce Harper, Pete Crow-Armstrong, and Ceddanne Rafaela swing at over half of first pitches, significantly above league average, highlighting a shift toward aggressive early approach.