Physics' Robert Brown estimates speed of baseball dropped from Terminal Tower in 1938 publicity stunt

Physics’ Robert Brown estimates speed of baseball dropped from Terminal Tower in 1938 publicity stunt Hero Type Image Cory Shaffer Fri, 08/21/2026 - 12:30 Media Editorial Staff August 19, 2026 Drop a baseball off Terminal Tower? It’s been doneCleveland Plain Dealer: Robert Brown, Distinguished University Professor in the College of Arts and Sciences, said historical estimates that baseballs dropped from Terminal Tower reached 138 mph were inaccurate because they ignored air resistance. He calculated the balls reached about 90 mph—comparable to a 100-mph fastball—and said only professional base