Jeremy T. Ringfield's Blog, page 204

Best portable computer monitor

Which portable computer monitor is best?

Portable computer monitors offer an excellent way for users to connect their laptops to a display, no matter where they are. However, ensuring you get one that works with your laptop’s hardware is vital. Portable computer monitors have different details worth looking out for, and you may need to prioritize things like size, connectivity and the display, depending on your usage.

If you’re in need of a reliable portable computer monitor, the ViewSonic 15.6-Inch Portable Monitor With full HD 1080p Display features a vivid display and connects via USB-C ports.

What to know before you buy a portable computer monitorUse

How you plan to use your portable computer monitor will determine which model is best for you. While most portable monitors work well with a laptop, you can also find monitors that connect to other devices. In addition, if you plan on performing standard tasks that aren’t visually intensive, you can likely get away with a more basic monitor. However, if you want to play games or edit a lot of images or videos, you should get one with a higher refresh rate and full HD resolution.

Size

Portable monitors vary in size, but those made for connecting with laptops tend to fall between 12-17 inches. But depending on your monitor use, you may need a larger or smaller size. While smaller monitors tend to be even more portable, larger monitors afford more space for those who need to edit visual media, gaming, or other activities that work better on a larger display.

Portable monitors vs. regular monitors

Portable monitors often cost as much as regular low- and midrange monitors, which surprises many people. Portable monitors must be super energy-efficient because they’re powered by USB. They’re also constrained by their smaller size, making it hard to fit as much hardware as in a regular-sized monitor.

What to look for in a quality portable computer monitorScreen

Like regular monitors, portable monitors vary in overall color, size, resolution, refresh rate and additional features, like in-plane switching (IPS.) If you plan to use it for gaming, it’s crucial to find a portable monitor with a full HD resolution of 1920 by 1080p and a refresh rate of at least 60 hertz. In addition, IPS can give colors a more authentic representation than displays without this feature.

Connectivity

One of the most critical factors of any monitor is how you connect it to your computer or device. Most portable screens now include USB-C ports that connect to other devices, while other monitors may have include different USB types, Mini HDMI or Mini Displayport.

Power

Portable computer monitors can get power in various ways. While premium monitors may include a built-in rechargeable battery, most options get power from the computer or from an AC adapter and wall outlet. If you need a particular type of power source for your monitor, it’s worth double-checking the listing before making a purchase.

How much you can expect to spend on a portable computer monitor

Cheap portable monitors without full HD screens can cost as little as $100. Most mid-tier and high-end portable monitors with full HD resolution range from $160-$300.

Portable computer monitor FAQAre portable computer monitors good for gaming?

A. While regular monitors pack a stronger punch due to their hardware and size, portable monitors are often a good solution for gaming on the go. Still, it’s essential to look for portable monitors with high refresh rates and a full HD resolution of at least 1920 by 1080p.

Can you use a portable computer monitor with a tablet?

A. Most portable monitors are designed for laptops, but you can also use them with tablets with the right hardware. Make sure you have the same connectivity options for your tablet and monitor; USB-C is the most common. Some Android tablets also have a Mini HDMI port, making them even easier to use as second monitors. Still, not every tablet supports this function, so it’s crucial to check the description.

What’s the best portable computer monitor to buy?Top portable computer monitor

ViewSonic 15.6-Inch Portable Monitor With full HD 1080p Display

What you need to know: This powerful portable monitor includes multiple connectivity options, a colorful low-latency display, a headphone port and built-in stereo speakers.

What you’ll love: The structure of this monitor includes a built-in stand and cover. The screen offers a 60-Hz refresh rate and 1920 by 1080p resolution. It includes two USB-C ports, so you can power it from a laptop or the AC adapter. It also has a Mini-HDMI port.

What you should consider: Some had a hard time dialing in this monitor’s color contrast.

Top portable computer monitor for the money

Asus ZenScreen 15.6-Inch Portable Monitor With USB 3.0 And Mounts For Tripod

What you need to know: If you want a portable monitor that connects easily to a laptop, this features a USB 3.0 cable and is slim enough to pack for transit.

What you’ll love: The screen has a vivid display, a refresh rate of 60 Hz and a resolution of 1366 by 768p. It uses a USB-A to USB 3.0 cable for power and comes with a convenient stand, a protective sleeve and universal tripod mounts.

What you should consider: The USB 3.0 port is a lot less universal and practical than USB-A, USB-C or mini-HDMI ports.

Worth checking out

Lepow 15.6-Inch Portable Monitor With full HD 1080p Display and USB 3.0

What you need to know: This economy-level monitor boasts an impressive display with a high-dynamic range and a 15.6-inch screen. It offers a good balance between size and portability.

What you’ll love: This thin monitor weighs less than most and is just 0.3 inches wide. It has a standard refresh rate of 60 Hz and a resolution of 1920 by 1080p, with both USB-C and mini-HDMI ports.

What you should consider: This doesn’t include any audio options.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

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Best pacifier clip

Which is the best pacifier clip?

Parents of young children have a lot to keep track of. When packing up to go somewhere, food, diapers and a change of clothes are essential. But a pacifier can be a figurative lifesaver. It also can be easily dropped or lost.

That is why pacifier clips are a great addition to every parent’s packing list. Pacifier clips keep the pacifier where it is supposed to be — close to the child and away from dirty floors. There are several styles of pacifier clips and many modern designs.

What to know before you buy a pacifier clipThere are different styles of pacifier clips

There are three main styles of pacifier clips. The standard straight-cut rectangular clip is simple but often includes unique designs for matching with car seats and pacifiers. Some pacifier clips are beaded which can also serve a dual purpose as teething beads. Pay close attention to reviews of beaded pacifier clips to make sure none have been recalled for potential choking hazards. A third style is a braided ropelike design that is rugged and also can serve as a teether.

There are different pacifier clips

The two main clip choices are metal or plastic. Metal clips are more durable, but some run the risk of rusting if they get wet. Plastic clips can crack or chip more easily, but they are smoother and can get wet. Most manufacturers design the clips with smooth surfaces to ensure they don’t snag your car seat or the child’s clothing.

There are safety standards for pacifier clips

Pacifiers in general fall under safety standards of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Pacifier clips are not in the same category, but they are held to the same standards when it comes to child safety. Look for products from trusted brand names that include safety certifications.

What to look for in a quality pacifier clipLength

The standard length for pacifier clips is usually 7 to 8 inches, although a few models have a 9-inch length. The key is to make sure that the clip cannot wrap around the entire circumference of the child’s neck. Shorter pacifier clips might be a better option for smaller children.

Material

The full clip ensemble usually is made from plastic, leather, cotton or linen. Some beaded products have a rubberized surface. Since the pacifier clip will be near your child — and many children use them as a nearby teether — be sure that the material is something that can be easily cleaned and that you are comfortable putting in your child’s mouth.

Design

There are many designs available for pacifier clips. Some are intended to match pacifiers from the same manufacturer. Others blend in with the design of car seats or perhaps a nursery. There are many options available, so if matching colors and patterns is important to you, there likely is an available pacifier clip. Simple solid-color options are also plentiful.

How much you can expect to spend on pacifier clips

Pacifier clips range from $1-$6 per clip. The price variation is based on how many clips come in a bulk set, as well as the overall design and materials used to manufacture the clips.

Pacifier clip FAQHow long will my child have to use a pacifier clip?

A. Most babies are able to reach and hold on to their pacifier around 6 months old. Pacifier clips are still a convenient way to keep the pacifier from falling to the ground or coming in contact with other items, so some parents may want to use them longer.

Are pacifier clips dangerous for babies?

A. In general, pacifier clips are not a high risk for your child. You should pay attention to the length of the clip as it should never be long enough to wrap around the full circumference of your child’s neck. Additionally, any designs that include beads or break-off pieces should be avoided because of the choking risk.

What’s the best pacifier clip to buy?Top pacifier clip

Itzy Ritzy Silicone Pacifier Clip

What you need to know: This silicone pacifier clip is good for those who are looking for alternatives to fabric clips.

What you’ll love: It’s crafted with food-grade silicone that’s soft and easy to clean. Due to the high-quality materials, the clip is also unlikely to rust.

What you should consider: These are a little bit heavier than some other pacifier clips, and only one clip comes in the package for the price.

Worth checking out

MAM 2 Clips for Pacifiers With Fasteners and Flexible Rings

What you need to know: This two-pack of versatile clips can fit any pacifier.

What you’ll love: They’re made with BPS- and BPA-free plastic silicone material. They fasten easily to a baby’s clothes, and the flexible ring has a universal fit.

What you should consider: The clip doesn’t stay on very well (according to some reviews).

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

Check out our Daily Deals for the best products at the best prices and sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter full of shopping inspo and sales.

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.

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Civil rights icon Harry Edwards to join Bay Area Sports Hall of Fame alongside Alex Morgan, Joe Rudi and others

SAN FRANCISCO — Preeminent sports sociologist Harry Edwards, basketball coach Mike Montgomery, soccer star Alex Morgan, ex-A’s outfielder Joe Rudi, and ex-49ers cornerback Eric Wright are this year’s inductees to the Bay Area Sports Hall of Fame.

That quintet, spanning this region’s vast accomplishments between the 1960s and this current decade, will be honored May 15 in San Francisco.

“The Bay Area Sports Hall of Fame class of 2025 represents a wide array of Bay Area sports history, and we are thrilled to welcome these legendary individuals,” said Mario Alioto, who chairs the BASHOF board. “Each of these distinguished inductees has made a positive impact in their respective field and serve as a reminder of the long history and quality of athletes and distinguished contributors that have impacted our region.”

Edwards, 82, became a human and civil rights icon after excelling in basketball and track and field at San Jose State. He did much more than key the 1968 Olympic protests by San Jose State sprinters Tommie Smith and John Carlos. A professor emeritus at Cal, Edwards began consulting for the 49ers in the early 1980s under then-49ers coach Bill Walsh’s push for minority hiring. Edwards, who’s also a Warriors consultant, revealed two years ago he is facing bone cancer.

“Dr. Edwards has proved himself to be an inspiration to the SJSU community through his selflessness, charitable acts, and his immense character,” Jeff Konya, San Jose State’s athletics director, said in a statement.

Montgomery, 77, coached nearly 30 seasons in the Bay Area, starting with a legacy-defining tenure at Stanford (1986-2004) before moving on to the Warriors (2004-06) and then Cal (2008-14). He was inducted into the College Basketball Hall of Fame in 2016.

Morgan, 35, played for Cal (2007-10) before becoming one of the most accomplished players in U.S. Women’s National Team history with wins in the 2015 and 2019 Women’s World Cups and the 2012 Olympics. She retired a year ago with the San Diego Wave, who she joined in 2022 and led the NWSL in scoring.

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Rudi, 78, played on the A’s 1972-74 World Series-winning teams, clinching that 3-peat with a seventh-inning home run in their Game 5 finale against the Dodgers. He was MVP runner-up in both 1972 and ’74, earned three all-star selections and three Gold Glove accolades.

Wright, a cornerback, played on the 49ers’ first four Super Bowl-winning teams during his 10-year tenure. He famously made a touchdown-saving tackle against the Dallas Cowboys after “The Catch” by Dwight Clark to preserve the 1981 49ers’ Super Bowl berth.

Tickets are on sale at bashof.org for the May 15 enshrinement dinner at the Hyatt Regency Embarcadero.

Kurtenbach: Jimmy Butler has the Warriors looking and feeling like themselves again. Adjust your expectations accordingly

SAN FRANCISCO — Draymond Green might have been onto something.

Perhaps the Warriors forward and the NBA’s most outspoken player was playing to a partisan crowd outside of Chase Center during All-Star weekend.

Maybe he was trying to manufacture another viral moment with the hottest take of the year.

But when Green declared that the Warriors, sitting in the No. 10 seed in the Western Conference at the time, but with Jimmy Butler in tow, “are going to win the championship,” it was aggregated, discarded, and lampooned.

The joke might be on anyone who dismissed the idea, though. The difference is the Dubs’ new No. 10.

The Butler era is just seven games old — early days yet — but the Warriors have won six of those games. There’s no interpretation of this Butler trade that isn’t favorable.

What’s not to like? After a not-too-short hiatus, the Warriors again look like the capital T, capital W Dubs — vanguards of ball and player movement and the smartest team in the NBA.

And as for extrapolation, the Warriors — not just Green — feel like the sky is the limit.

New data requires new opinions.

And while there are plenty of possible pitfalls on the path back to the top—no one should bet the rent backing Green’s proclamation—the new evidence suggests that the Warriors have a fighting chance at making the Saginaw Soothsayer right again.

But how has Butler changed the Warriors’ fortunes so quickly and effectively?

Warriors coach Steve Kerr — peppered with questions about the Dubs’ new star Monday — proffered a few suggestions, but one kept seeping through:

IQ.

“He’s a brilliant basketball mind,” Kerr said.

Getty Images(Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

As much as the Warriors’ success over the last decade has been a testament to their athletic greatness, the difference between them and their top rivals over the years has been between the ears. The Dubs play smarter and have been mentally tougher.

The Warriors swayed from the righteous path in recent years. Even a few weeks ago — yes, weeks — they traded for Dennis Schröder, a player whose style of play and on-court temperament was downright antithetical to the way Kerr wants to play. It was a gamble that didn’t pay off — he was shipped out as part of the Butler trade.

“I see a lot of the same qualities from Jimmy that I saw in Andre [Iguodala]. They’re different players, but the feel, the IQ, the understanding of each possession — the importance [given] to each possession… just constantly being in the right spot. Very similar to Andre.”

If Iguodala was the team’s “babysitter” (a nickname Kerr admitted Iguodala hated Monday), then Butler is the team’s “designated driver.”

“We’ve always been our best when we can put a lot of IQ next to Steph and Dray so we can complement the chaos they create with a measured and thoughtful approach that gives us an all-around attack,” Kerr said.

And with Butler, you have a “connector” who is not only able to make winning plays on both sides of the court, but he’s also capable of holding down the fort when Curry is sitting — this team’s bugaboo since Kevin Durant’s departure following the 2019 season.

The Warriors have a better net rating with Curry off the court and Butler on it (plus 32.3 points per 100 possessions in 69 minutes) than vice versa (plus 26.2 in 80 minutes).

At the same time, Curry’s average shot distance on 2 pointers is now two feet closer to the basket when he’s playing alongside Butler — a clear indication that despite Butler’s lack of 3-point prowess, he’s creating more space on the floor for Curry to operate. Adding to that argument is the fact that the Warriors’ shot selection with Butler is almost identical, save for one tweak: The Warriors have turned five above-the-break 3-pointers into corner 3-pointers in the last seven games. The latter is the most optimal shot in the game and a priority for opposing defenses — the 3-point line in the corner is 21 inches closer to the hoop, after all. To turn one into the other shows an offense that’s humming.

You can see it. This is the Warriors’ system at its best.

And the Dubs aren’t even knocking down their open looks yet.

“That’s one of the things I’m really kind of excited about,” Kerr said. “We haven’t even shot it well the last 10, but we’re executing well. That bodes well for when the ball starts going in.”

The trade that brought Butler to San Francisco also forced Kerr, his staff, and the Warriors roster to get down to brass tacks. The Dubs shipped out four players to land Butler, meaning everyone left on the roster had to find a role to fill.

The Warriors in the pre-Butler era were downright ambiguous. Lineups were constantly changing, and roles, in turn, did too. In the Warriors’ quest to find a No. 2 to play alongside Curry, they failed to define roles for players Nos. 3 and beyond.

Anything went — Kerr couldn’t do much but sit back and see who in his massive rotation stepped up on any given night. It made the season feel aimless.

But with Butler firmly in the No. 2 role, everyone else had to find a way to fit in.

“It’s always way easier to be a role player when you’re playing with great players than when you’re trying to mix-and-match different combinations,” Kerr said.

Moses Moody has been called upon to be a 3-and-D wing. He’s thriving with the increased opportunities.

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Brandin Podziemski has received more opportunity as the team’s backup point guard once again — he and Butler have developed an incredible level of chemistry in a short period of time, with the second-year guard averaging five points per 100 possessions more with Butler on the squad.

“[It’s] Just the IQ that each possesses, it plays well together. They see the passes, they see the cuts. You put them together with Steph and Draymond out there and there’s a lot of possibilities for them,” Kerr said.

Yes, there’s that initialism again. It’ll define the rest of the season.

Maybe the Warriors will lack the size or the shooting, or perhaps someone will twist an ankle, or Jonathan Kuminga will decide he doesn’t like his new role upon return from injury — countless things can prove Green’s brash prediction incorrect in the coming weeks.

But when you watch the Warriors these days, it’s hard not to believe they can do something this postseason.

Butler carried two also-ran teams into the NBA Finals. Curry won a title in 2022 with Andrew Wiggins and Kevon Looney as his Nos. 2 and 3. What can the two do together?

I’ll bet on the smarter, mentally tougher team in a seven-game series in the West.

And for the first time in a long time, we can say with some conviction that the Warriors will be just that.

What the Warriors have learned so far about Jimmy Butler, their new ‘designated driver’

SAN FRANCISCO — Things the Warriors have learned in their short time with Jimmy Butler: He likes coffee, he lights candles and he seemingly brings out the best in everyone around him.

“And he likes to gamble here and there,” Gary Payton II said after practice Monday, adding to the list with a sheepish grin.

Dominoes aside, the Warriors are undoubtedly a better bet to make some noise this spring than they were before Butler’s arrival. And it’s not just his ability to draw contact and create shots on the offensive end, or the backside help and switchability he provides defensively.

It’s the impact he’s made on the rest of the roster.

“He’s one of the great players in the league, so when people play off of him, the game is simplified,” coach Steve Kerr said. “That’s what I’m seeing from Moses (Moody), BP (Brandin Podziemski), even with our stars. Even with Steph (Curry) and Draymond (Green), the game has gotten easier because we can play through Jimmy.”

Forget for a moment the Warriors’ 5-1 record with Butler, which has already pulled them within 1½ games of the No. 6 seed, and take a look at the underlying numbers.

Their offense has been one of the most efficient in the NBA (120.8 points per 100 possessions, sixth). Their defense has been even better (106.8, fourth). They are even committing far fewer turnovers (12.2 per game, seventh).

And the players who have been the biggest difference makers, according to plus-minus? Podziemski (plus-109), Green (plus-79) and Moody (plus-62).

“It’s just easier to make sense of everything when you’ve got a guy like (Butler) who’s out there reading possessions and making the right play over and over again,” Kerr said. “I think that’s one of the reasons why Jimmy made so much sense for us: Because of his basketball IQ, his passing, the way he connects the game at both ends.

“We’ve always been at our best when we can put a lot of IQ next to Steph and Dray to complement the chaos they create with a thoughtful, measured approach that gives us an all-around attack.”

While Curry has benefitted from the scoring burden being lifted from his shoulders and Green has enjoyed having another fiery presence in the locker room, Butler has seemingly rubbed off the most so far on the Warriors’ supporting cast, particularly young players such as Podziemski and Moody.

Podziemski recorded his first double-double of the season in Sunday’s win over Dallas, grabbing a career-high 13 rebounds to go with 17 points and is averaging 14.8 points per game since Butler’s arrival. Moody, averaging 13.0 over the same stretch, has scored in double figures in five of his six games with Butler, topped by a 22-point effort with five 3-pointers Friday at Sacramento.

“It’s just another high-IQ player,” Podziemski said. “The beauty of a guy with a high IQ is you can put him in any system and he’s going to figure it out. The transition has been seamless, and you guys have seen it for the six games now. … Similar to me, just being around a lot of high-IQ guys, it allows Moses (to know) his role and have a lot more mental clarity of what’s expected of him out there.”

Both players have become fixtures of a starting five that hasn’t given Kerr any reason to shake things up and has, in fact, solidified roles all the way down the roster. Buddy Hield, now a sixth man, dropped 22 on the Kings and was a plus-19 despite only making one basket Sunday. Quinten Post, the 52nd overall pick who started the season in the G League, has stepped up as the unlikely stretch big the undersized lineup demands.

But it all comes back to Butler.

“It’s really become apparent, I think, since Jimmy’s arrival how much more settled the game feels,” Kerr said. “We’re able to connect the offense to the defense and vice versa. We seem to be in control of games more so now. I think that’s helping our confidence and our belief. It’s fun to watch unfold.”

Almost as much fun has been getting to know Butler off the court and in the locker room, where he makes his presence known in a multi-sensory experience.

Butler has already shown a proclivity to pipe up, even taking the whiteboard and drawing up a play in his fifth game, but you might smell him before you hear him.

“I love the candles,” Payton said of the olfactory additions to the team’s pre- and postgame routine. “He’s got a variety. I’ve smelled a lot of different scents and I haven’t not liked one yet. I’m probably going to have to ask him about his candle collection.”

Perhaps wax and wicks are in the cards for Butler’s next business venture.

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While many of his Warriors teammates hung around town and participated in the festivities of All-Star weekend, Butler used the downtime to focus on his second job, as a purveyor of small-batch (and high-priced) coffee beans. Kerr learned Butler was in Dubai, opening up a shop.

“Not many NBA players can claim that,” Kerr said. “He’s a very interesting guy. The reason he’s wearing No. 10 is he’s a soccer guy, he loves Neymar. I think his soccer background is displayed in his basketball game. But he’s a very worldly guy, a very thoughtful guy. And he happens to have a superstar body. … You throw all that together, he’s a really dynamic person in our locker room and clearly a dynamic player on the court.”

Kerr has compared Butler’s calming presence to Andre Iguodala, whom he used to call the team’s babysitter.

“Andre told me years ago that he didn’t like being referred to as ‘babysitter.’ That was my mistake,” Kerr said. “I need to think of a different metaphor, for sure. Designated driver. Jimmy’s our designated driver.”

SF Giants’ Verlander experiences rare firsts, flashes familiar velocity in Cactus League debut

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — On the cusp of his 20th major-league season, there isn’t much that Justin Verlander hasn’t experienced at this point in his career. For all his experience, his start on Monday afternoon represented a rare first: pitching in the Cactus League.

“I was told not to overly concern myself with pitch shapes here and the movement of the ball because it’s tough,” Verlander said. “But I’m hypercritical.”

Verlander, wearing his familiar No. 35, tossed two innings against the Colorado Rockies at Scottsdale Stadium in his first ever spring training start under the Arizona sunshine, allowing one run on a solo homer across two innings. Along with pitching his first Cactus League game, Verlander experienced another rare, albeit unfortunate, first when he dropped the ball with a runner on base, resulting in a balk.

Most pitchers with Verlander’s credentials wouldn’t give much consideration to an inconsequential home run in February. Verlander, though, is preparing for the image of Michael Toglia’s home run to run on replay well into the night.

“I think a lot of pitchers — me in particular — have a tendency to be a little over critical and maybe tinker when you don’t need to sometimes,” Verlander said. “I’m trying to balance that. This is the first time I’ve had competition. So, I’ll think about it. I’ll be thinking about it all night. I won’t get much sleep.”

 

“The intensity’s there with everything he does — spring training or not,” said manager Bob Melvin after the Giants’ 2-2 tie with the Rockies.

Verlander, who turned 42 last week, spent the first two-ish decades of his professional career with teams that played spring training in the Grapefruit League: the Detroit Tigers (Lakeland, Fla.) and the Houston Astros (West Palm Beach, Fla.). For pitchers, the difference between six weeks in Arizona and six weeks in Florida is not insignificant.

Due to the dry desert air, Verlander’s pitches will move differently in Scottsdale compared to San Francisco, specifically, and most ballparks across the country, generally. Verlander laughed that just about everyone told him not to get overly wrapped up with his pitch shapes, but Verlander added the need for being “honest with yourself.” Verlander credited Logan Webb, who had a 10.97 ERA in spring last year, for sharing his experiences with the Arizona air.

“I try not to take too much into shapes,” Verlander said. “I try to take more away from hitter reactions. But it’s also like going into Colorado or Arizona, where you know the pitch shapes aren’t going to react the exact same.

“So, it’s actually a new challenge for me in spring. … When you come out of a start, you’re like, ‘Do I need to work on that? Or is it just the air and it’s not quite catching the way I would have it normally?’ That’s something that I’m going to have to really think about.”

Verlander may have to give second thought to the movement profile of his pitches, but he likely won’t be worrying about his velocity.

The right-hander threw 18 four-seam fastballs against the Rockies with an average velocity of 94.8 mph, topping out at 95.97 mph according to the Scottsdale Stadium scoreboard. Last season, Verlander’s average fastball clocked in at 93.5 mph, a dip that was due in large part to the neck and shoulder injuries that plagued him.

Verlander said his average velocity in spring training has a tendency to oscillate from year to year. Early in his career, Verlander topped out at 92-93 mph, but would ramp up to triple digits by the time the season started. Other years, Verlander would sit in the mid-90s and maintain that into the season.

“I thought he threw the ball extremely well,” said catcher Max Stassi, a teammate of Verlander’s with the Houston Astros. “The resumé speaks for itself. He’s been a horse in this league for a long, long time and he showed exactly why.”

Luciano flexes muscle in Tempe

Marco Luciano, currently in competition for San Francisco’s fourth outfield spot, had the Giants’ most impressive swing of the afternoon, albeit not one in Scottsdale.

Against the Los Angeles Angels in Tempe, Luciano hit a towering solo home run off the Angels’ José Suarez that nearly cleared the batter’s eye. Tempe Diablo Stadium does not have Statcast capabilities, but the distance was likely in the 430-foot range given the center-field wall is 420 feet from home plate.

At Scottsdale Stadium, Jung Hoo Lee snuck a low line drive over the right-field fence for his first home run of spring.

“Way more comfortable today,” Melvin said. “Not only does he hit the ball out of the ballpark, but then gets in some deep counts, taking some pitches that he was probably swinging at the other day. It’s been a while since he’s had at-bats. He looked a lot more comfortable today.”

Clipboard: Martorella invited to Miami Marlins spring training

Salinas High grad Nathan Martorella was one of 24 players in the Miami Marlins organization not on their 40-man roster to receive an invitation to take part with the big league club in spring training.

Drafted in the fifth round in 2022 by the San Diego Padres out of Cal, Martorella was traded to the Marlins last May during a minor league game in San Antonio while standing on second base.

Assigned to their Double-A affiliate, the 22-year-old put together a strong second half, finishing with 18 homers in 127 games for Pensacola.

Martorella will be worked out in spring training by the Marlins as a first baseman, where he has a career .984 fielding percentage.

Last spring Martorella was invited to the Padres’ spring training after climbing to Double-A in a little over a year.

Having jumped three levels in two-plus minor league seasons totaling 290 games, Martorella has hit 40 homers and driven in 164 runs, while scoring 161.

A four-time member of The Herald’s All-County baseball team, Martorella was The Herald’s Male Athlete of the Year in 2019, earning all-league honors in football as well.

Martorella produced a 19-game hitting streak during his junior season at Cal in 2002, earning all-Pac 12 honors before being drafted by the Padres.

Union continue international additions

The reshaping of Monterey Bay FC’s roster with an international flavor continues after the franchise inked Australian forward Luke Ivanovic to a one-year contract.

Ivanovic’s arrival adds more depth up front to an overhauled roster, which will see 13 new faces grace the pitch when the Union open the United Soccer League Championship season on March 8 in San Antonio.

Last year, the fourth-year franchise was the third worst offensive team in the USL, having been shut out 15 times in failing to make the postseason.

“Luke has the ability to dribble past players and create opportunities for himself and others,” Monterey Bay FC technical director Simon Dawkins said. “He is a quick winger and is a really good addition to the room of dynamic forwards that we currently have.”

The 24-year-old Ivanovic spent his first three professional seasons playing for Sydney FC, collecting his first goal nine minutes into his first start, helping the franchise to two A-League championships in Australia.

“It’s a great opportunity to be a part of a club that’s building something special,” Ivanovic said. “It was a super easy decision – the club’s ambition aligns with me perfectly. I believe Jordan (Stewart’s) guidance will elevate my game and get the best out of me.”

Ivanovic spent last season with FC Lahti in Finland, recording nine goals and three assists in 33 appearances. He has also played with current teammate Jacob Muir in the past in Australia.

Solid season debut

Building off of last year’s impressive freshman campaign, Soledad grad Eric Segura opened the spring for the nationally-ranked Oregon State baseball team by striking out three in 2.2 innings.

Entrenched in the starting rotation, the 6-foot-2 right-hander was on a pitch count, throwing just 59 pitches in picking up the win.

Last year Segura went 6-1 for the Beavers, striking out 71 in 69 innings. In 72 career innings, he has a 4.88 earned run average.

Segura was The Herald’s Baseball Player of the Year in 2022 and a two-time member of The Herald’s All-County baseball team.

A teammate of Segura’s is Carmel graduate Jabin Trosky, who has come off the bench in two of the Beavers’ first four games, driving in a pair of runs.

Martinez off to a blistering start

Senior infielder Natalia Martinez is off to the best start in her four-year career at Portland State, hitting .290 through the team’s first 10 softball games.

The Salinas High graduate has homered and shares the team lead in doubles with two and runs batted in with nine.

Martinez has had three multiple-hit games for the Vikings, with a team-high two sacrifice flies.

Earning a spot on the Big Sky All-Conference tournament team last year, Martinez has started 108 games in her career, with nine homers and 53 RBI, while hitting .272.

Martinez has walked 28 times in her career, while being hit by a pitch 13 times, compiling a .352 on-base percentage. She also sports a career .911 fielding percentage at third base.

Coaches needed

Alvarez is looking for coaches for flag football and girls’ tennis. Go to brian.vazquez@salinasuhsd.org

Salinas is looking for a head coach in field hockey. Go to https://salinashscowboysathletics.com

Monterey is also looking for a head JV football coach. Go to abesaw@mpusd.net

Officials needed

Peninsula Sports Incorporate is looking for high school and middle school officials for all sports this season. Varsity officials are paid $100 a game.

There is an immediate need for officials and umpires in the spring for boys’ volleyball, baseball, softball and boys’ and girls’ lacrosse. Training is provided. Call Tom Emery at (831) 241-1101.

Monterey Women’s Basketball League

The Monterey Women’s Basketball League will begin on March 2 at the Monterey Sports Center. A pick-up game will kickoff the season at 2 p.m., with teams being formed after the game. Games will be held each Saturday from 1-5 p.m. Standard fee is $100. Register at montereysportscenter.com

 

Imjin Parkway project in Marina enters phase two with traffic switchover

MARINA – Weather permitting, this Thursday night the Imjin Parkway Widening and Roundabout Project will move into phase two with the switch of traffic over to the newly constructed north side of the parkway so that construction on the south side can begin.

The Imjin Parkway Widening and Roundabout Project is a two-year effort to widen and increase safety on a traffic artery for about 30,000 daily motorists.

The night shift work, from 7 p.m. – 6 a.m., will see the contractor re-striping and moving k-rail to shift traffic onto the new pavement on the north side of Imjin Parkway, according to the Transportation Agency for Monterey County. Expect increased noise from trucks loading/relocating k-rail and the utilizing of portable lights to illuminate the work areas. Imjin Parkway will be closed from Reservation Road to California Avenue and detours will be signed. Abrams Drive will remain open and emergency vehicle access will be available at all times.

Phase two will see work on the south side of the roadway, eastbound toward Reservation Road. Work will include demolishing the existing roadway, grading, drainage, utilities, irrigation and lighting, paving and temporary striping, landscaping, south side of roadway roundabout construction at Imjin Road, Marina Heights Road, Abrams Road and Preston Avenue.

The project affects 1.7 miles of Imjin Parkway from Reservation Road to Imjin Road and will include the construction of four roundabouts, and increase the stretch of roadway to four lanes.

From now until March 7, day shift work will include the continued placement of sidewalks, curb and gutter near Imjin Road and Marina Heights Drive, begin trenching along Marina Heights Drive and install electrical service conduit for streetlight and irrigation controller service. Work will also see the continued excavating/installing bioswale soil material along Imjin Parkway and the continued prepping plant pits for trees on side slopes. Crews will begin installing landscape boulders along the phase one roadway alignment, switch traffic to phase two configuration and grind out existing roadway on the south roadbed, along with continuing work to relocate a 400-foot section of sanitary sewer force main across from Preston Drive, as well as the continued environmental monitoring of contractor activities job wide.

Traffic control is in place and the enforceable speed limit through the construction zone is 25 mph.

Phase 3 will be miscellaneous roadwork including demolishing temporary paving, roadway paving and temporary striping, drainage utilities and lighting and grading.

Phase 4 will be final paving — top lift — and striping.

Upon completion, anticipated to be by the end of June 2026, the Imjin Parkway Widening and Roundabout Project will provide transit and pedestrian improvements, add on-street buffered bike lanes, stormwater treatment areas, retaining walls and a sound wall.

The improvements will benefit commuters who travel through the corridor, as well as those who live along Imjin Parkway at Cal State Monterey Bay and the neighboring homes in Marina Heights, Sea Haven and Preston Park.

The city of Marina is the lead agency for the project, which is also the second regional Transportation Agency for Monterey County Measure X project to be built.

Measure X was the November 2016 ballot measure approved by 67.7% of Monterey County voters for the Transportation Agency’s Transportation Safety and Investment Plan.

The Imjin Parkway Widening and Roundabout Project’s $40.5 million in funding sources include $2 million from Marina generated from development impact fees, around $18.2 million from Transportation Agency for Monterey County’s Measure X and about $20.2 million from California’s SB1 local partnership program.

To stay informed about the Imjin Parkway Widening and Roundabout Project, visit the project website at www.imjinparkway.com or call Edrie De Los Santos, city of Marina, at 831-884-1212.

Supervisors to consider ban on indoor battery storage

The Monterey County Board of Supervisors will vote on a set of recommendations from an ad hoc committee including a proposal to prohibit future indoor battery storage facilities.

Formed in early February, the committee — led by Supervisors Glenn Church (District 2) and Kate Daniels (District 5) — has met with city staff multiple times. Their goal was to facilitate discussions with department heads, including those from other counties, to explore ways to prevent future fires.

Among the committee’s five recommendations is urging the county to formally oppose any future indoor battery storage sites. Church has also hinted at pushing for more rigid legislation alongside California Assemblywoman Dawn Addis, who introduced the Battery Energy Safety & Accountability Act in January. The bill would remove battery energy storage facilities from the California Energy Commission’s opt-in certification program, returning decision-making power to local communities on whether to approve new projects.

The committee will also call for existing battery storage facilities to meet the highest industry standards, including transitioning to safer battery technology, such as non-lithium alternatives.

One of the key concerns raised by both county supervisors and the public is thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries. Once ignited, the batteries can enter an uncontrollable chain reaction, making it difficult – if not impossible – for firefighters to extinguish the flames.

Concerns intensified when officials revealed that the Moss Landing fire had to burn itself out, raising alarms about prolonged smoke exposure and the potential contamination of soil and water by heavy metals.

The other recommendations include:

Calling for Vistra to work with county officials on a remediation and recovery plan.Urging Vistra and Pacific Gas & Electric to remain offline until the cause of the fire is determined and safety measures are in place.Preventing both companies from expanding their facilities until state legislation is updated.

The board of supervisors will meet at 9:30 a.m. Feb. 25 in the Board Chambers, 168 W. Alisal Street, Salinas. The meeting will be streamed online and can be watched via Zoom at https://montereycty.zoom.us/j/224397747.

Horoscopes Feb. 23, 2025: Dakota Fanning, charm, creativity and boundaries will pave the way to a bright future

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Dakota Fanning, 31; Emily Blunt, 42; Kristin Davis, 60; Patricia Richardson, 74. Happy Birthday: Charm, creativity and boundaries will pave the way to a bright future. Recognizing and applying your niche to everyday life will open a window of opportunity. Don’t underestimate those who try to recruit you to see things their way or lure you to indulge when moderation is in your best interest. Use this year to walk away from negative influences. Your numbers are 10, 17, 23, 28, 36, 42, 44. ARIES (March 21-April 19): Anger will stand between you and getting what you want. Be innovative, responsive and accommodating; you’ll find a way to please everyone and control whatever situation you encounter. It’s up to you to set the mood when faced with opposition. A positive attitude will overcome negativity. Update your image. 2 stars TAURUS (April 20-May 20): A change will be a healthy start to your day. Plan an adventure, start a new project or engage in something that offers knowledge, insight and skills that will help you improve your prospects or lifestyle. Trust your instincts, follow your heart and do your best to satisfy your needs. 5 stars GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Take a breather and rejuvenate. Rethink your strategy and observe how others handle similar situations. Make learning your path to letting go of whatever stands between you and your goal. Life is about choices; deciding what’s best for you is yours to discover. Refuse to allow someone else to dictate your future. 3 stars CANCER (June 21-July 22): Power forward with strength, courage and the willingness to embrace change. Refrain from letting your emotions tie you to the past, people, places and things, stifling your ability to make the most of your life. Discuss the possibilities with someone you love and respect, and exude confidence moving forward. 3 stars LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Take a watch-and-wait position when asked to participate in something questionable. Pay attention to your personal and emotional well-being and adopt what accommodates your happiness. Donating time to something satisfying will lead to encounters with people who spark your interest. Romance will fulfill your dreams and lead to positive lifestyle changes. 3 stars VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Express your desires, be willing to make accommodations to ensure you get what you want in return and put your energy into gaining ground and improving your lifestyle. Getting out and sharing your thoughts, feelings and desires will attract encounters offering vision and clarity to help you surpass your expectations. 5 stars LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): A window of opportunity will open if you apply time and effort to something you want to achieve. Someone you chat with while pursuing something you enjoy doing will spark your imagination and add power and substance to achieving something beneficial. Personal growth, knowledge and feeling and looking great are attainable. 2 stars SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Get out, explore and try doing things differently, and what you discover will change your perspective regarding possibilities. Reach out to someone who can explain something that irks you or stops you from moving forward. Ask questions; the truth will lead to personal freedom. Engage in something that makes you happy. 4 stars SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Opportunities flow when the planets align; recognize what works, and let go of what doesn’t. Self-improvement, better connections and lifestyle changes are all within reach if you can free up time and give your heart the go-ahead. Focus on personal gain, not giving your blood, sweat and tears to benefit someone else. 3 stars CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Ask questions; find out where you stand. Achieving an understanding with people who affect your well-being will make your life easier and help you establish better choices. A financial gain is within reach if you partner with someone with as much to contribute as you or if you improve your money management. 3 stars AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Pay attention and be on guard to make a move. Opportunity is apparent, but you must do your due diligence to maximize what’s available. Take the initiative to find your way forward instead of waiting for someone to lead the way. Trust yourself, and you’ll do good and feel good. 3 stars PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Let information sink in, and you’ll find a realistic way to handle whatever situation you encounter. You are overdue for a change, but before you engage in something new and exciting, implement a budget that fits your snack bracket. Choose a lifestyle that eases debt and stress. 4 stars Birthday Baby: You are dedicated, approachable and understanding. You are spirited and acclimatizing. 1 star: Avoid conflicts; work behind the scenes. 2 stars: You can accomplish, but don’t rely on others. 3 stars: Focus and you’ll reach your goals. 4 stars: Aim high; start new projects. 5 stars: Nothing can stop you; go for gold. Visit Eugenialast.com, or join Eugenia on Twitter/Facebook/LinkedIn.

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