This kind of analysis would be more likely to come from Kevin Goldstein

of course velocity matters

.... but it ain't everything.  A major league hitter can gear up for a 100mph fastball if that's all you have.  (See Mike Pelfrey, not exactly 100 mph but of that same vein).

but it's got nothing without control.  Steve Dalkowski was a good example.  Sad thing that he injured his arm before getting into majors.  

Movement is another vital part but few have really figured out how to obtain it and Maddux is one of them.  

If you look at the list of fireballers from 2002 and where they are today, there is a much better correlation with their 2002 ERA at whatever level.

someone take a statistical look at velocity relative to size. Or more specifically discrepancy of size compared to 'average' height of leaguewide pitchers.  Anyone know if that's been done?

Over the past couple of years, that seems to be something that pops out.

Prototypical new age 6'3 to 6'4 guy that throws 96?  Other stuff gets the same ratings as the rest of the guys out there. One other pitch MLB pitch, another needs some work, etc.  Tough time most of the time.  5'11-6' guy's throwing 94-96? better results. 6'8 guy throwing 95? better results. Anecdotal and other factors.  Someone here said look for one REALLY good thing to help filter.  I do that and also look at size a little too.

It would seem to make sense that it has to do with the angle of the plane the hitter typically sees from everyone else.  And his expectations for how it is going to look coming in to him.  Dovetails a little into deception maybe.  But Pedro was Pedro not just because he threw 99, but because he was short and throwing 99 (as well as that wicked change and all the other stuff). Same for Randy.  Command and control have to be there obviously.  I just think that high speed 100 or so from 6'3 isn't as 'good' as 100 from 6'1 or 6'8 due to lack of others doing the same (granted not too many others doing 100 at all, but hopefully you get my drift).

Just wish I had been able to crack 70. My size would have made all the difference...I know it!

is a separation between these starters and relievers who can throw 100. Any starting pitcher that touches the mid 90s can get real close to 100 when they don't have to conserve their energy and can throw as hard as they want. I've never seen or heard anything about any of Joba's MiL starts, but I'd like to see if he can toss in the high 90s past the 5th inning without losing his composure -- in the Verlander, Harden mold. At least IMO, that's when you can legitimately say a starter throws triple digit heat.