LOS ANGELES, CA (Catholic Online) - Chapman's 25 pitches Friday night each registered 100 mph or faster, including his record-breaking 105 mph heater. The pitches must have been a blur to Padres batters.

His performance took its toll on Chapman's arm. "My arm had been a little sore and the rest helped," Chapman said. "I felt as good as I did a couple weeks ago. Not the best I've ever felt, but I felt good."

Chapman credited his stepped-up velocity Friday to the fact that he'd pitched only once in the last week. He didn't allow an earned run in his first eight relief appearances after being promoted in late August, but the Astros nicked him for two runs a week ago. He pitched a scoreless inning on Monday against the Brewers, and then had three more days off.

But the most lasting memory was of a now-you-see-it, did-I-actually-see-it fastball to Tony Gwynn in the eighth inning. The pitch was no mistake. Chapman threw 25 pitches in his 1 1/3 innings of relief, and every one was at least 100 mph.

"I didn't see it until the ball was behind me," Gwynn said. "I was trying not to look at the radar reading because I'd be intimidated. I saw how hard he was throwing and just tried to be slow and work my hands."

The 105-mph pitch was inside for a ball and evened the count at 2-2. Gwynn had fouled off the previous two pitches and fouled off the next before striking out. He ought to be pleased with his effort, forcing Chapman to make seven pitches, the slowest of which was 102 mph.