Latest news with #Strider
USA Today
2 days ago
- General
- USA Today
Spencer Strider had a brutally honest take on his struggles after surgery
Spencer Strider had a brutally honest take on his struggles after surgery When Spencer Strider broke into the big leagues back in 2021 (and his subsequent rookie season in 2022), he quickly built a reputation as one of baseball's best pitchers by virtue of an electric four-seam fastball. But Strider's career arc faced a serious obstacle when he suffered an elbow injury last season, forcing him to undergo internal-brace surgery — not to be confused with Tommy John, which he already had in college. Strider is back this season, and thus far, he has looked like a shell of the Cy Young Award candidate we watched in 2023. Now, it was always going to be a work in progress, coming off elbow surgery. And that's been obvious in the significant drop in Strider's velocity. His rookie season, Strider's fastball averaged 98.2 mph. He harnessed that velocity a bit in 2023 with a 97.2 mph average, but was still able to hit triple digits when needed. This season, Strider's fastball is at 95.2 mph — in the 68th percentile among big-league pitchers. And on Tuesday, we saw that fastball dip to as low as 93 mph. Sure, there are plenty of pitchers who are effective with 93-95 mph velo, but they aren't doing this: And Strider is well aware that his approach needs to change as he can't beat hitters with his fastball velocity (at least for now). He offered reporters this brutally honest take after the Braves' 8-3 loss to Arizona where Strider allowed three home runs. Via 'Command without stuff is batting practice. That's about what I offered up today. I've got to be better, just to give us a chance.' That's exactly what Strider has been doing post-surgery. He's allowing a league-worst average exit velocity of 94 mph. His whiff rate has cratered. And on top of the velocity drop, he hasn't been consistently commanding his secondary pitches. Just look at what Ketel Marte did to an 0-2 changeup Strider left over the plate. Strider could get away with middle-middle fastballs and mistake pitches when he was throwing 100 mph. He simply can't do that right now. Could the velocity slowly come back as he continues this season or with a full offseason? Sure, it's possible. But Strider very well may be looking at a situation where he needs to reinvent himself or risk falling out as a reliable starting pitcher, much less an ace. He can't continue to approach batters like his 2023 self when the stuff isn't there. It's batting practice, like he said.
Newsweek
2 days ago
- Business
- Newsweek
This 280-Strikeout Pitcher Continues to Struggle After Injuries
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Just two seasons ago, a young right-hander by the name of Spencer Strider put together one of the best pitching seasons in the history of MLB. Strider went 20-5 with 281 strikeouts across 32 starts and 186 2/3 innings pitched. He was an All-Star and finished fourth in NL Cy Young voting that season. Since then, his career has been on a bit of a slide, and he looks nowhere close to the 20-game winner he was two years ago. ATLANTA, GEORGIA - JUNE 03: Spencer Strider #99 of the Atlanta Braves pitches in the second inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Truist Park on June 03, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia. ATLANTA, GEORGIA - JUNE 03: Spencer Strider #99 of the Atlanta Braves pitches in the second inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Truist Park on June 03, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia. Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images Strider made just two starts last season before being shut down due to an elbow injury that required surgery to replace his ulnar collateral ligament. That same injury forced his season debut this year to come on April 16, when he allowed two runs and struck out five batters over five innings. Strider suffered a hamstring injury in that outing and was forced to miss over a month before making his next start. Strider allowed five runs, including three home runs, on Monday in Atlanta's 8-3 loss to the Arizona Diamondbacks. He lasted five innings, the most he's pitched since his season debut in mid-April. 2 at-bats, 2 home runs for Ketel Marte! — MLB (@MLB) June 3, 2025 Strider has made three starts since coming back from the hamstring injury and has allowed 10 runs and struck out 14 across 14 innings pitched. His season ERA is now 5.68 and the Braves have lost all four games he's started. A major area of concern for Strider has been the dip in his fastball velocity. During his 20-win season, his average fastball velocity of 97.2 mph ranked in 92nd percentile. Fast forward to this year and although it is a small sample size, Strider's average fastball velocity has fallen to 95.1 mph and is in the 68th percentile. There is certainly plenty of time for Strider to regain his confidence and find that fastball velocity again, but with at least three more seasons remaining on a six-year, $75 million contract, the Braves may have quite a bit of buyer's remorse if he continues to struggle. More MLB: Yankees-Red Sox Blockbuster Trade Possibility Would Bring $120M Superstar to Bronx
Buzz Feed
2 days ago
- General
- Buzz Feed
27 Outdoor Toys That Toddlers Actually Love
A Strider convertible bike so your toddler can get their balance down before throwing pedaling into the mix, because learning to ride shouldn't require tears (yours or theirs). It starts as a balance bike and can be upgraded later with a pedal kit when they're ready to level up. I have two toddlers — one's nearly two and the other is three and a half — and they are obsessed with these bikes. Every day, they're outside riding them, and I love how confident they seem because they get to use their feet to move. Several toddlers in our neighborhood have them too, and my kids have basically formed a tiny Strider bike gang. They all ride together, and it's sooooo cute. I'm never too worried, since there's no pedaling to lose control over, and when the time comes, I'm sure they'll take to pedaling easily because they're already so comfortable on these bikes. And yes, they wear my kids out. After 30 minutes to an hour, they're totally exhausted, which is ideal because the last thing I want at the end of a long day is a wound-up toddler. Win-win. Get the orange bike from Amazon for $229.99 (you can get the pedal conversion kit here; there are also blue and fuchsia options). And don't forget to get a toddler helmet! I'm a big fan of the spiky dragon ones. A splash pad that's basically a backyard sprinkler, baby water park, and sneaky educational tool all in one. It has the alphabet printed on the play mat and a bunch of adorable animals, too, so your toddler can splash, shriek, and maybe even shout out a few letters while they play. A colorful tree swing for creating Hallmark movie–level memories. It's waterproof AND has a weight capacity of 900 pounds, so the whole gang can comfortably and safely use it together. Promising review: "We've had this swing hanging in our tree out back for two years now. Our kids, and their friends, LOVE it. I love that it's large enough to accommodate a number of kids/people, and that it's held up so well over time. Would totally recommend." —KrystalGet it from Amazon for $51.47. A high-output bubble machine that cranks out 18,000+ per minute (yes, really), so you can officially stop blowing them yourself. It works with batteries or a plug, has a big ol' tank for longer play sessions, and fills the yard with nonstop floaty joy, basically the MVP of summer afternoons and backyard birthdays. Promising review: "I recently purchased this bubble machine and it has exceeded all my expectations! One of the standout features is its dual power options. You can use either batteries, which is perfect for outdoor fun, or plug it in for endless bubbles without worrying about running out of power. The bubbles are plentiful and consistent, creating a magical atmosphere for my kids. It's also incredibly easy to use and set up. We've used it for parties, playdates, and even just a fun afternoon in the backyard. Highly recommend this bubble machine for anyone looking to add some extra joy to their events!" —MarissaGet it from Amazon for $26.95+ (available in five colors) An inflatable dinosaur water play center for transforming your backyard into a miniature waterpark. It has a slide with a landing pad and a movable dinosaur arch water sprayer to keep everyone cool. Promising review: "Was looking for something to keep us busy and cool in our backyard. This is incredible, and my son (20 months) absolutely loves it! There's so much to keep us busy, from the ball toss to the misting slide. I even laid on it to sunbathe, and it was comfortable, lol. Really excited to use this for the summer and have people over to enjoy it with us!! If you're on the fence, let this be your sign to buy! ☀️" —Ashley EdbergGet it from Amazon for $50.43. A flower-building activity set so they can build their own wildflower bouquet without waiting for anything to bloom. It comes with bright, mix-and-match pieces that help toddlers learn the parts of a plant while working on their tiny fine motor skills. Bonus: everything's washable and packs up into a handy little storage box. Promising review: "My niece is still playing with this toy a year later. I don't fill out reviews, but this actually deserves one. Kids will definitely have fun playing with this and making their own creations." —L DaltonGet it from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in two color options). A pop-up camping play set packed with 17 pretend tools, from a lantern and gas stove to a shovel, whistle, and binoculars. The tent pops up in seconds and doubles as a reading nook, nap zone, or very important kid headquarters. The Fun Little Toys Store is a small business that sells, you guessed it, fun toys! Promising review: "Cannot believe the great deal we got. We got this for our 2-year-old's birthday and both boys LOVED it. There was so much included with it — the pretend lantern and cook stove that LIGHT UP, and the food toys, and fake watch my 4-year-old wouldn't take off for a day. My run-on sentence could go on and on. They love it. They were entertained for hours, so I love it too." —BiancaGet it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in three styles). A wooden sandbox with built-in benches that flip down into a lid when playtime's over, so the sand stays clean and dry (and doesn't become a neighborhood litter box). Made from durable cedar and lined on the bottom to help with drainage, it turns any patch of yard into a full-blown digging, building, and snack-sharing operation. Promising review: "My daughter plays in this sandbox every day. 10/10. I close it when it rains and open it as soon as it stops raining to dry the sand out and prevent mold inside the box. As long as you take care of the sandbox, it should last." —Nina Get it from Amazon for $129.99 (available in five wood finishes). A Twister Ultimate Splash game so your tiny one can twist, stumble, and laugh their way through a backyard sprinkler party. It works like the classic game but sprays water from the colored spots, so every move turns into a splashy, wobbly adventure. A dinosaur-themed Cozy Coupe that lets your kids ride around like a tiny prehistoric VIP. It's got a working horn, a gas cap that opens and closes, and a removable floorboard so you can push or let them power it with their feet. Promising review: "We have bought this one several times over the last four years, the grandchildren love them. The dinosaur is cute, and the car is made well; it's heavy-duty. This car has lasted for years, from 18 months to 6-year-old kids' daily wear and abuse. It still works as it did the day we put it together. I love these cars, they are worth every penny you pay for them. Definitely will and have recommended this to everyone." —mfeatonjrGet it from Amazon for $64.99 (also available in another style) A foldable play set if you want a literal playground in your backyard. It has a slide, climbing wall, swing, monkey bars, rope wall climbing net, and a wooden ladder. The Avenlur Store is a small business that sells indoor and outdoor play sets. Promising review: "Bought this for my 2-year-old's birthday. It was a HIT at her party. She uses every section regularly. We set it up outside for the summer and just brought it in for the fall! It can be used by several kids at once. As a buy-nothing queen, I was hesitant about the price but am satisfied." —Jonathan D Get it from Amazon for $499+ (available in two sizes). A nine-pattern sprinkler to keep your lawn in great shape while providing your kids with endless entertainment. Just connect it to a hose and boom, it's ready to go. Promising review: "My toddler claimed this as 'his sprinkler.' He loves running through it on various modes. I like it, as it is VERY versatile all over our yard (small garden, large garden, raised bed garden, HUGE lawn areas, long/lean lawn areas, etc). There's literally a setting for each location. Wonderful purchase." —MaryGet it from Amazon for $21.47+ (available in six colors). An ice cream chalk set by Melissa & Doug so your kiddo can take their sidewalk art *and* pretend play to the next level. The chalk is shaped like popsicles and cones, so they can serve up "flavors" while decorating the driveway. No melting, just masterpieces. A wooden outdoor mud kitchen that'll let your bb whip up gourmet mud pies, leaf soup, and whatever else their imagination (or your backyard) cooks up. It comes with working water features and pretend cooking tools so that they can splash, scoop, and stir to their heart's content. A pack of acrylic paint pens so your toddler can turn rocks, seashells, flower pots, and basically any other surface into their next original work of art. With 12 vibrant colors, these pens make outdoor crafting way less messy than the usual brush-and-cup situation, and way more fun. A toss-and-catch ball set for toddlers who love throwing stuff but aren't quite ready for baseballs flying at them. The velcro paddles make catching way easier (and funnier) and it's basically the perfect intro to hand-eye coordination without any tears or bruises. A paint and plant your own garden set so your kid can decorate and dig. They'll paint the planter, plant the seeds, and (hopefully) remember to water it, giving them a front-row seat to the magic of watching something grow because of them. A SunPrint paper kit for little scientists, artists, or kids who just like putting leaves on things. All they have to do is arrange objects on the special paper, leave it in the sun, and then rinse it with water to reveal their creation. Part craft, part science experiment, and fully magical to a young kid's brain. A plastic playhouse with working doors, shutters, and just enough charm to make your kid feel like they've got real estate. It's lightweight, easy to assemble, and has a sweet cottage look that fits right into any backyard setup. A bubble toy lawn mower for kids who love to push things and cause chaos in the cutest way possible. Just fill it with the included bubble solution, and every step sends out a flurry of bubbles — no batteries needed. It even makes pretend mowing sounds, so they'll feel very important while "cutting the grass" for the 800th time. A beanbag toss game because toddlers love throwing stuff, and this gives them three different ways to do it. One side is a dinosaur bean bag toss, the other's a turtle sticky ball game. It's lightweight, foldable, and easy to set up inside or out, which means you're never far from a mini carnival moment. A pair of kid binoculars with oversized, comfy eyepieces and 2x magnification so your little explorer can get a closer look at birds, bugs, clouds, and whatever else grabs their attention. No focus dial, no batteries, just grab-and-go nature spotting at its finest. Promising review: "Even a year later this toy is going strong in our household. It was a gift to our then 2-year-old and she LOVES it. Its made to last, so no matter the beatings, its still going strong." —Jarynette MontejanoGet them from Amazon for $9.69+ (available in two colors). A magnetic fishing game set with 30 colorful ocean creatures, two fishing rods, and nets — perfect for water tables and kiddie pools. The pieces float, the poles "catch" with magnets, and the whole thing is surprisingly great for hand-eye coordination (and keeping busy for more than five minutes). Promising review: "Super fun and easy to use. They can basically get placed anywhere and they're ready to go! My daughter is almost two and was able to get a good couple of minutes of fishing!" —Nohely AlcalaGet it from Amazon for $16.98+ (available for two or four players) A jumbo four-to-score game even if your toddler has no idea how to play. I have this for my two toddlers, and it's honestly absurd how long they'll stay entertained just dropping the discs in. Once it fills up, I pull the release bar and they start over, again, and again, and again. A set of two dino-themed remote-control cars with big button remotes, flashing lights, and music because one zippy little vehicle isn't enough. They charge quickly, run on different frequencies so they can race together, and come with interchangeable dino drivers for twice the prehistoric fun. MindSprout is a small business that makes cool toys for kids. Promising review: "I'm pretty sure I love these more than my daughter. These are so cute and so fun to play with. They're very easy to control and the batteries last a good while. Very well-made and bright, in case you wanna play in the dark." —Ryan RiggsGet it from Amazon for $29.99. A scooter board with handles so kids can scoot, spin, and glide their way across the driveway or basement like it's gym class in 1994. Promising review: "My toddler and I have a ton of fun on this scooter board! It glides very easily and is very sturdy, even for a grown adult of average size. The value is/was totally worth all the smiles and fun I've seen from playing with this scooter board." —FelichaGet it from Amazon for $28.69. And a set of 120 jumbo sidewalk chalks in every color you could want, including glitter and neon, obviously. The pieces are easy for small hands to grip, rinse right off with water, and turn sidewalks into ever-changing murals of smiley faces, rainbows, and whatever else their little hearts dream up.
Sharjah 24
3 days ago
- General
- Sharjah 24
Sharjah celebrates World Bicycle Day
Special activities for children Children particularly enjoyed the event, as a special area was designated for participants under the age of 7. The two-hour event was a success, thanks to the effective coordination between the Sharjah Sports Council, the UAE Cycling Federation, and Strider. Community spirit and participation Bakhit Al Qars praised the community event, stating that it has become an annual occasion eagerly awaited by cycling enthusiasts in Sharjah. He emphasized that participation was the main focus, regardless of winning or losing, which is often the case in official races where competition is fierce. He appreciated the enthusiasm of the participants and the family atmosphere that prevailed throughout the event. Commemorative medals Medals were distributed to all participants, designed in the shape of a bicycle, featuring a map of the world to commemorate World Bicycle Day, a unique element since the first edition.
The Province
6 days ago
- General
- The Province
Why Canadian military's Cyclone helicopters were grounded for 27 days in May
'Questions emerged in late April about whether various spare parts for the aircraft were potentially in use beyond their service life' Members of the Helicopter Air Detachment aboard HMCS MONTREAL conduct helicopter hoist drills with a CH-148 Cyclone helicopter, call sign Strider, during Operation REASSURANCE on Feb. 13, 2022. Photo by Corporal Braden Trudeau / Forces armées canadiennes The Canadian military's Cyclone helicopters weren't flying for 27 days in May due to a lack of spare parts, and only one of them is now able to take to the skies. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Exclusive articles by top sports columnists Patrick Johnston, Ben Kuzma, J.J. Abrams and others. Plus, Canucks Report, Sports and Headline News newsletters and events. Unlimited online access to The Province and 15 news sites with one account. The Province ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition to view on any device, share and comment on. Daily puzzles and comics, including the New York Times Crossword. Support local journalism. SUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Exclusive articles by top sports columnists Patrick Johnston, Ben Kuzma, J.J. Abrams and others. Plus, Canucks Report, Sports and Headline News newsletters and events. Unlimited online access to The Province and 15 news sites with one account. The Province ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition to view on any device, share and comment on. Daily puzzles and comics, including the New York Times Crossword. Support local journalism. REGISTER / SIGN IN TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account. Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments. Enjoy additional articles per month. Get email updates from your favourite authors. THIS ARTICLE IS FREE TO READ REGISTER TO UNLOCK. Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments Enjoy additional articles per month Get email updates from your favourite authors Canada has 26 of the ship-borne maritime helicopters, with a final one slated for delivery this year. The $5.8-billion fleet is normally used to provide air support for the Royal Canadian Navy. Their missions include surface and subsurface surveillance, search and rescue, and anti-submarine warfare. 'On May 1, the Commander of 1 Canadian Air Division ordered a temporary pause to flying operations for the CH-148 Cyclone fleet, after questions emerged in late April about whether various spare parts for the aircraft were potentially in use beyond their service life. The temporary pause to flying operations was lifted as of May 27,' Kened Sadiku, who speaks for the Department of National Defence (DND), said in an email. Essential reading for hockey fans who eat, sleep, Canucks, repeat. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. Please try again This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. 'Certain aircraft components have a defined service life to ensure continued safety and airworthiness. Because using parts beyond their defined service life would pose risks to the safety of personnel and equipment, the decision was made to temporarily pause flight operations until certainty is regained.' Read More DND, the military and Sikorsky, which manufactured the helicopters, 'have been working together to identify potential parts of concern. This includes components of the Cyclone's landing gear, tail rotor driveshaft flange and auxiliary power unit, as well as engine parts,' Sadiku said. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. As of this past Wednesday, one Cyclone, now on deployment, returned to flying operations, he said. 'The team works to do the same for the rest of the fleet.' The Cyclone 'fleet is currently facing some challenges, such as aging datalink systems as well as sensor and other capabilities that are overdue for important upgrades,' he said. 'Specific details, however, cannot be provided for reasons of operational security.' Military and government officials 'are working together with industry partners to determine a way forward for the aircraft and the capabilities it supports,' Sadiku said. 'The Cyclone remains capable of supporting Royal Canadian Navy operations and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future.' This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Sadiku wouldn't confirm Sikorsky has put a hefty price tag on replacing the Cyclones' ageing datalinks — used to communicate digital information such as radar images to other aircraft, warships and shore bases. 'The datalink upgrade project is still under evaluation, as such, schedule and costs are still being negotiated.' The military has flown other helicopters off the navy's warships before. 'In the past, CH-146 Griffons have landed on Royal Canadian Navy vessels in certain operational contexts (specifically, the relief efforts to Haiti in the wake of the 2010 earthquake),' Sadiku said. 'However, none of the Royal Canadian Air Force's helicopter fleets (besides the CH-148 Cyclone) are capable of fulfilling the maritime helicopter role in support of the Royal Canadian Navy.' This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Paul Martin's Liberal government announced in 2004 that the Cyclones would replace Canada's ageing fleet of CH-124 Sea King helicopters. 'The Cyclones are what we call an orphan fleet,' said retired colonel Larry McWha, an aviation expert who commanded 423 Maritime Helicopter Squadron at 12 Wing Shearwater, when it flew Sea Kings. That means many suppliers aren't interested in producing parts for the Cyclones, McWha said. 'It's going to cost us money to keep (the fleet) viable.' McWha lives on Nova Scotia's Eastern Shore. 'I used to see Sea Kings flying by here all the time,' he said. 'I have extremely rarely ever seen a Cyclone flying by.' Canada lost a Cyclone on April 29, 2020 when one of the helicopters crashed into the Ionian Sea, claiming the lives of six Canadian Armed Forces members. Months later, senior military officials said there was a 'conflict' or 'competition' between the Cyclone and its pilot moments before the aircraft, known as Stalker 22, plunged into the water off the coast of Greece. Our website is the place for the latest breaking news, exclusive scoops, longreads and provocative commentary. Please bookmark and sign up for our daily newsletter, Posted, here. News BC Lions Local News Vancouver Whitecaps News
