logo

head portrait Sign Out
icon_more
logo
head portrait

Reds, Brewers, Nationals are on pace to post highest stolen-base totals of any MLB team since 1990s

Copyright Source: Yueke Tue, Jul 2, 2024
Reds, Brewers, Nationals on Pace for Highest Stolen-Base Totals Since the 1990s
MILWAUKEE (AP) — Cincinnati’s Elly De La Cruz knows the distraction he causes to opposing pitchers whenever he gets on base.
“It seems like they get a little bit nervous right there when I go out there,” said De La Cruz, who leads the majors with 37 steals, through a translator.
With De La Cruz leading the charge, the Reds are stealing bases at a rate unseen over the last three decades. The Milwaukee Brewers and Washington Nationals are right on their heels.
No team this century has stolen more than 200 bases in a single season (the 2007 New York Mets had exactly 200). The Reds, Brewers, and Nationals are all on pace to surpass that mark as they capitalize on rule changes implemented last year to spur the running game.
Cincinnati has 107 steals through its first 74 games and is on pace for 234. That would be the highest total for any team since the 1992 Brewers had 256, according to Sportradar.
The NL Central-leading Brewers have 104 steals through 75 games, and the Nationals have 101 through 74 games. That puts the Brewers on pace for at least 224 and the Nationals on track for 221. No team has finished a season with over 201 steals since the 1993 Montreal Expos had 228.
“As the saying goes, speed never slumps,” Brewers outfielder Blake Perkins said. “It’s always something we’ve got in our back pocket.”
Major League Baseball increased the size of the bases from 15 square inches to 18 square inches last year and ruled pitchers could only disengage from the rubber to call timeout or attempt a pickoff throw twice per plate appearance.
Those rule changes led to 3,503 stolen bases last year – the most since 1987 and a 41% increase over 2022 – plus an MLB-record success rate of over 80%. The success rate has dropped to 78.4% this year, but MLB teams had combined for 1,653 steals through Thursday – 70 more than at this date last year.
“They got what they wanted,” Brewers first-base coach Quintin Berry said. “They wanted (stealing bases) to be a lot easier. They wanted more action on the basepaths. And with the rules and the bags and everything else, it’s more in line for base stealers. I wonder if they’re going to ever do anything to try to counter that, because it’s getting so high now, but I know fans are loving it, so probably not.”
While the Reds are building off what they did last year, when they had an MLB-leading 190 steals, the Brewers and Nationals have become much more aggressive this season. The Brewers ranked 11th in the majors with 129 steals, and the Nationals were 12th with 127 in 2023.
No other teams had more than 77 steals heading into Friday’s games.
“Giving up one of your 27 outs on the bases is a no-no, you know, in the era where one pitch can change a game with a three-run homer,” Brewers manager Pat Murphy said. “There’s a lot of risk in it. You’ve got to be willing to do it. Maybe teams like ours are willing to risk. You’ve got to have the personnel to emphasize it and get good at it.”
Nationals manager Dave Martinez said last week he believes the Nationals can keep up this stolen-base pace but noted that they need to do a better job of picking their spots.
“I don’t want to take away our aggressiveness because it’s our identity,” Martinez said. “It’s who we are. We have to do that. We don’t have those guys in the lineup hitting 30, 40 home runs. We have to push the envelope somehow and move the baseball. With that being said, we’ve had a lot of conversations the last few days about when to run, when not to run.”
Reds first base coach Collin Cowgill says stealing bases now isn’t as easy as it was last year because teams are trying harder to contain the running game. Cowgill said Arizona Diamondbacks starting pitchers went to a slide-step whenever the Reds put a runner on base against them.
“That just didn’t happen last year,” Cowgill said. “I think people are definitely doing a better job defending it. Catchers are more aware of it. Their stances are a little taller. They’re ready to throw more. The leg isn’t kicked out as much. I think people have done a much better job this year of controlling it and paying attention to it more so than last year, which makes sense.”
But it hasn’t made much of a difference.
According to Sportradar, all of MLB started tracking the number of times a runner was caught stealing in 1951. Since then, no team has stolen at least 200 bases with a success rate of over 81.3%. This year’s Brewers have been successful on nearly 86% of their attempts.
The Reds have converted 81% of their stolen base tries. The Nationals have been caught stealing an MLB-high 34 times and have been successful on three-quarters of their attempts.
Milwaukee players credit Berry’s scouting reports for helping them make sure they go at the right time.
“We have a lot of guys who are fast and athletic and can run,” said Brewers second baseman Brice Turang, whose 26 steals rank second in the majors. “It’s part of the game. You’ve got to take advantage of it and help your team win.
“Even guys who maybe aren’t as fast are stealing bases too, trying to get good jumps.”
That’s the case with all three teams atop the stolen-base charts. For instance, Washington’s Jesse Winker entered this season with three steals in 610 career games. He’s swiped 11 bags already this year.
Washington has five players with at least 10 steals: Jacob Young (17), Lane Thomas (16), Winker, Trey Lipscomb (10), and CJ Abrams (10). The Brewers have four players with double-digit steals: Turang, Christian Yelich (15), Willy Adames (10), and Perkins (10).
Cincinnati has De La Cruz on pace for 81 steals, which would be the highest total for any MLB player since 1988. The Reds have two more players with double-digit steals (Spencer Steer with 12, Jake Fraley with 11) and five others with at least six.
These three teams don’t have anyone with more than 12 homers, so they’re finding other ways to generate offense. The Brewers’ win over the Reds on Sunday was a classic example.
In the third inning, De La Cruz drew a two-out walk, stole a base, and scored from second on an errant pickoff attempt. Four innings later, Turang reached on an infield hit, stole second, advanced to third on a poor throw, and scored on Yelich’s bunt single.
“Just different philosophies for different teams,” Cowgill said. “We’re more get on base and cause some chaos. So are the Brewers. So are the Nationals. I just think (it’s about) the way your team is built. If we had a 50-home run guy in the middle of the order, we might be less likely to steal bases when that guy’s at the plate.”
___
AP freelance writer Patrick Stevens contributed to this report.
___
AP MLB:

NEXT: Browns release Lonnie Phelps following his DUI arrest in Florida after crashing into restaurant
CLEVELAND (AP) — The Cleveland Browns released defensive end Lonnie Phelps on Thursday following his arrest on drunken driving charges after he crashed his SUV into a Florida restaurant. The team did not address Phelps’ legal issues in its news release but mentioned that he spent all of 2023 on the practice squad. Phelps was charged with DUI and damaging property on Wednesday night after authorities reported that he drove into an outdoor lounge area at Red Shoe Island Bistro in Key West. According to a police report obtained by cleveland.com, he refused to take a breath test. The report also states that Phelps refused to cooperate with officers at the scene. The building’s owner estimated the damage at $300,000, according to cleveland.com. The 23-year-old Phelps played at Miami (Ohio) before transferring to Kansas. He signed a reserve/future contract with the Browns in January. Phelps participated in Cleveland’s minicamp last week. ___ AP NFL:

icon_top Top Headlines

Two kings, one prince due to attend their national teams’ games on same day at Euro 2024

VLADIMIR PUTIN

Popular flowers and their meanings: How to send a message with a floral gift

VLADIMIR PUTIN

Should young kids have smartphones? These parents in Europe linked arms and said no

VLADIMIR PUTIN

Select more content

Select more content

Olympic track hopeful Eric Holt quits job, moves in with parents to focus on making Paris Games
Kings acquire goaltender Darcy Kuemper from Capitals for forward Pierre-Luc Dubois
5 Real-Life IKEA Closet Storage Ideas Used by Our Editors
Coming back from cancer, Brazil rugby sevens star Raquel Kochhann ready to tackle her third Olympics
Movie Review: ‘Kinds of Kindness,’ Emma Stone’s latest foray into fearlessness with Yorgos Lanthimos
[Recipes] Summer Dessert No-Bake Oreo Cheesecake
2-time French doubles champ Caroline Garcia leads France tennis team at Olympics
Rising Rates of PTSD and Anxiety Among College Students
Movie Review: ‘Kinds of Kindness,’ Emma Stone’s latest foray into fearlessness with Yorgos Lanthimos
[Recipes] Summer Dessert No-Bake Oreo Cheesecake
2-time French doubles champ Caroline Garcia leads France tennis team at Olympics

Recommend

8 Best Summer Superfruits

Oh honey, let’s talk summer and the best season for fresh produce, aka Superfruits heaven. While “Superfruits” might not be an official scientific category, nutritionists rave about these nutrient-packed delights. They do wonders like boosting your immune system, supporting gut health, and more. Plus, they’re versatile—think blueberries and tomatoes in everything from muffins to marinara. Ready to stock up? Let’s dive into the must-have summer Superfruits, according to our fave dietitians.

Chatty Kitchen

[Recipes]Guilt-free Popsicles Are The Perfect Match For Summer

<span style="font-weight: 500;font-size:20px">Ingredients</span> for 6 popsicles 1 cup strawberry 1 cup kiwi 1 ½ cups water <span style="font-weight: 500;font-size:20px">Special Equipment</span> popsicles mold, with 6 slots <span style="font-weight: 500;font-size:20px">Preparation</span> 1. Cut kiwis and strawberries into thin slices. Remove kiwi skin, and discard strawberry tops. 2. Fill the popsicles mold with the fruit. 3. Fill in the gaps of air with water. 4. Freeze the popsicles for at least 5 hours. 5. Take the frozen popsicles out of the ice molds and enjoy!

Chatty Kitchen

Clever Food Pantry Organization Ideas to Keep You Clutter-Free

Group Foods by Type Think of your pantry like a grocery store—keep similar items together. Designate areas for breakfast foods such as cereals and oats, canned goods, condiments, and packaged items like pasta or rice. Pearce Design Group places canned drinks and non-food items lower down.

Organization Tools

How to Fake a Spotless Home with 7 Lazy Hacks

Hey, my dear readers! Are you like me—lazy but still wanting a spotless-looking home, especially when friends visit on the weekends? I’ve compiled a few quick cleaning hacks for the lazy ones among us. You can also use these tips for daily maintenance because, let’s face it, even lazy folks like to have a tidy space. 1. Wipe Down Glass Surfaces Clean your coffee table, TV screen, and mirrors. Glass shows every speck of dust and fingerprints, so a quick wipe can make a big difference. 2. Hide Clutter in Baskets Use pretty woven baskets to temporarily stash away clutter. Place a blanket over the top to disguise the mess. Straighten up pillows and decor while you're at it. 3. Clean Kitchen Counters A clean kitchen is inviting. Sweep crumbs into a small brush pan set and vacuum the stove crevices. Spray multipurpose cleaner for a fresh scent. 4. Vacuum and Tidy Corners Quickly vacuum high-traffic areas and focus on corners where dust bunnies collect. Clean the baseboards too for a polished look. 5. Speed-Clean the Bathroom Swap out towels, wipe the mirror and faucet, and clean the sink and toilet. Hide countertop clutter in the medicine cabinet. 6. Take Out the Trash Empty trash cans to prevent odors. This small step makes a big difference in maintaining a clean vibe. 7. Open Curtains and Light a Candle Natural light makes spaces look cleaner. Light a candle for a welcoming scent. Close doors to rooms you don’t need to clean. With these tips, your home will look neat and tidy in no time, leaving you more time to enjoy with your guests.

How to Hide Scars With Makeup

They say that death and taxes are the only certainties in life, but I’d argue that scars deserve a spot on that list too. Whether it’s a mark from an old acne breakout, a curling iron mishap, or a childhood injury that never quite healed, scars are a universal experience. If your scars don’t bother you, that’s wonderful. However, for those with visible scars—especially on the face—makeup can be a game-changer. Covering scars with makeup requires a different approach than concealing dark circles or pimples. , “Covering up scars can be quite tricky since makeup is mostly a two-dimensional medium while scars are often three-dimensional.” Too much makeup can emphasize texture rather than hide it, so it’s all about thin layers and blending. The technique also varies based on the type of scar. Here’s a detailed, professional guide on how to use makeup to cover scars, plus the best products for the job. General Step-by-Step Guide to Covering Scars with Makeup 1. Moisturize Your Skin Hydrated skin is key to achieving a flawless makeup application. Start by applying a good moisturizer to ensure your skin is well-prepped. 2. Apply a Primer Primers help smooth out the skin’s surface and increase the staying power of your makeup. Choose a primer that matches your skin type for the best results. 3. Use Foundation Before Concealer Adivi recommends applying a thin layer of foundation over your entire face before using concealer. This evens out the skin tone and reduces the amount of concealer needed. 4. Set Your Makeup Lock everything in place with a setting powder or spray to enhance longevity and coverage. Techniques for Different Types of Scars Raised Scars (Hypertrophic) Raised scars are smooth and can have a shiny appearance. Celebrity makeup artist Andrew Sotomayor suggests using mattifying products to counteract the shine and provide better adhesion. A thin layer of foundation and concealer is usually sufficient for these scars. - Depressed Scars For pitted or atrophic scars, a filling primer can help create a smoother surface. Adivi recommends using a concealer slightly lighter than your skin tone to the deepest points, creating the illusion of raised skin. Use a small eyeliner brush for precise application. - Dark Spots Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation requires a high-coverage concealer. Sotomayor advises using a long-wear concealer and setting it with translucent powder before and after application for extra coverage. - Red Marks To neutralize redness, Adivi and Sotomayor suggest using a green color corrector under your concealer and foundation. Alternatively, mix the corrector with your concealer for a seamless blend. Conclusion These professional tips and techniques can help you effectively camouflage scars with makeup, ensuring a smooth and flawless finish. Experiment with different products and methods to find what works best for your skin type and scar texture.

beauty tutorials

How to Find the Perfect Foundation for Dark Skin

Finding the best foundation for dark skin is no longer like searching for a unicorn. A broader range of foundations and makeup for women of color exist today than ever before - something for every shade of beautiful! Where’s the best place to start to find your own flawless foundation? Read on for our pro tips for choosing the perfect foundation for brown and black skin.

beauty tutorials

How to clean Your dog's ears: 3 simple steps

Before Cleaning, Ensure You Have the Appropriate Supplies. We Recommend Preparing the Following Items: - A dog-specific ear cleaner - Moist cotton balls or pads - A towel - Treats - An extra pair of hands (if your dog does not stay still)

How to Speed Up Your Kitchen: 8 Common Knife Mistakes to Avoid, According to Chefs

Alright, darlings, gather 'round because we need to talk about the travesty that is your kitchen knife etiquette. Knives are like the Louboutins of your kitchen—absolutely essential, and if you're not treating them right, you're wasting serious culinary potential. I got the inside scoop from some top chefs on the most horrendous knife mistakes you're making and how to fix them, so let’s dive in and get your kitchen game on point. <span style="font-weight: 500;font-size:20px">1. Don't Leave a Knife Wet</span> Seriously, if you’re leaving your knives to air dry, you might as well throw them in the trash. Dry your knife right away after washing. Don't let it sit. Leaving it wet can dull the blade or cause rust. And don’t even think about soaking them overnight. Quick wash and dry, people! <span style="font-weight: 500;font-size:20px">2. Keep Knives Out of the Dishwasher</span> Do I even need to say this? Dishwashers are the graveyard of sharp tools. Always handwash to make sure it's properly scrubbed with soapy water and dry it immediately. Dishwashers will ruin your knives faster than you can say “dull Airbnb knife.” <span style="font-weight: 500;font-size:20px">3. The Blade Isn’t a Scraper</span> Stop using the sharp side of your knife to scrape food off your cutting board! Use the backside to avoid dulling it. Or, better yet, use a bench scraper. Your knife is for cutting, not scraping, darling. <span style="font-weight: 500;font-size:20px">4. Picking the Wrong Knife</span> Most of you are either overestimating or underestimating your knife needs. The fancy Japanese knives are for pros who know how to take care of them. If you buy something super cheap, it’ll get dull after a few uses. Start with a good, affordable brand that’s durable. <span style="font-weight: 500;font-size:20px">5. Sharpen Your Knives</span> A dull knife is a dangerous knife. Sharpen them at least twice a year. Learn to use a whetstone or take them to a pro. Trust me, it’s worth it. <span style="font-weight: 500;font-size:20px">6. If You Can’t Commit to Sharpening, Pick Serrated</span> Serrated knives stay sharper longer and can be used for more than just bread. If you’re not going to sharpen your knives, stick with serrated ones. They’re low maintenance and versatile. <span style="font-weight: 500;font-size:20px">7. Store Your Knives Correctly</span> Stop slamming your knives onto magnetic holders! Let the spine of the knife touch the holder first and then gently let the edge connect. And please, no storing knives tip-down in utensil holders. Use a magnetic strip, cork-lined drawer, or knife cover. <span style="font-weight: 500;font-size:20px">8. Serrated Blades Are Best For Acidic Foods</span> Acidity can corrode the blade edge, causing faster deterioration. Use serrated knives for tomatoes, lemons, and citrus fruits to preserve your other blades. There you have it, folks. Stop making these knife faux pas and start treating your kitchen like the gourmet sanctuary it’s meant to be. Happy chopping!

Kitchen Picks

Hot

8 Must-Try Short Square Nail Designs for Summer: Vibrant and Chic Ideas

As summer makes its grand entrance, short square nails are emerging as the ultimate canvas for vibrant and stylish nail art. These trendy designs not only showcase your sense of fashion but also reflect your personality. Whether you're enjoying a refreshing drink by the beach or working in a trendy café, your nails will surely be a conversation starter. Let's explore the top designs that are making a splash this season.

8 Short Blue Nail Idea To Try In 2024

blue is the perfect hue to embody both creativity and elegance. Whether you prefer a soft, serene look or a bold, vibrant statement, blue nail designs offer endless possibilities. Here are some of the most popular blue shades for 2024: Dark Indigo Blue: This deep, rich shade is perfect for a sophisticated and timeless look. It's a favorite for those who love a classic yet edgy vibe. Classic Navy Blue: Always in style, navy blue is versatile and chic, ideal for both formal and casual occasions. Royal Blue: This vibrant, regal shade stands out beautifully, making it perfect for those who want their nails to be the center of attention. Bright Neon Blue: For a fun and energetic vibe, neon blue nails are a must. They’re eye-catching and perfect for summer days or nights out. Light Blueberry Milk: This soft, pastel blue is perfect for a subtle, elegant look. It’s trendy and adds a touch of sweetness to any outfit. Choose your shade based on your mood and personal style to make the best impression.

8 Enchanting Bridal Nail Ideas for Summer

As summer weddings approach, brides are looking for the perfect nail designs to complement their bridal looks. This season, the trends are all about combining elegance with a touch of enchantment. From classic French tips with a modern twist to intricate floral designs and sparkling accents, these eight enchanting bridal nail ideas are sure to make any bride feel magical on her special day. Whether you prefer subtle sophistication or dazzling details, these nail designs offer a variety of styles to suit every bride's taste and wedding theme. Let's explore these captivating options that will add the perfect finishing touch to your bridal ensemble.

How to Hide Scars With Makeup

They say that death and taxes are the only certainties in life, but I’d argue that scars deserve a spot on that list too. Whether it’s a mark from an old acne breakout, a curling iron mishap, or a childhood injury that never quite healed, scars are a universal experience. If your scars don’t bother you, that’s wonderful. However, for those with visible scars—especially on the face—makeup can be a game-changer. Covering scars with makeup requires a different approach than concealing dark circles or pimples. , “Covering up scars can be quite tricky since makeup is mostly a two-dimensional medium while scars are often three-dimensional.” Too much makeup can emphasize texture rather than hide it, so it’s all about thin layers and blending. The technique also varies based on the type of scar. Here’s a detailed, professional guide on how to use makeup to cover scars, plus the best products for the job. General Step-by-Step Guide to Covering Scars with Makeup 1. Moisturize Your Skin Hydrated skin is key to achieving a flawless makeup application. Start by applying a good moisturizer to ensure your skin is well-prepped. 2. Apply a Primer Primers help smooth out the skin’s surface and increase the staying power of your makeup. Choose a primer that matches your skin type for the best results. 3. Use Foundation Before Concealer Adivi recommends applying a thin layer of foundation over your entire face before using concealer. This evens out the skin tone and reduces the amount of concealer needed. 4. Set Your Makeup Lock everything in place with a setting powder or spray to enhance longevity and coverage. Techniques for Different Types of Scars Raised Scars (Hypertrophic) Raised scars are smooth and can have a shiny appearance. Celebrity makeup artist Andrew Sotomayor suggests using mattifying products to counteract the shine and provide better adhesion. A thin layer of foundation and concealer is usually sufficient for these scars. - Depressed Scars For pitted or atrophic scars, a filling primer can help create a smoother surface. Adivi recommends using a concealer slightly lighter than your skin tone to the deepest points, creating the illusion of raised skin. Use a small eyeliner brush for precise application. - Dark Spots Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation requires a high-coverage concealer. Sotomayor advises using a long-wear concealer and setting it with translucent powder before and after application for extra coverage. - Red Marks To neutralize redness, Adivi and Sotomayor suggest using a green color corrector under your concealer and foundation. Alternatively, mix the corrector with your concealer for a seamless blend. Conclusion These professional tips and techniques can help you effectively camouflage scars with makeup, ensuring a smooth and flawless finish. Experiment with different products and methods to find what works best for your skin type and scar texture.

beauty tutorials

How to Remove Makeup Without Makeup Remover: 8 Effective Methods

As a travel enthusiast, forgetting to pack makeup remover is all too common. Washing my face repeatedly with hotel soap is a nightmare I never want to relive. To avoid this, I consulted some makeup artist and model friends to compile a list of effective makeup removal methods for those times when you’re without your usual remover. Whether you're forgetful or a DIY enthusiast, I hope these tips help! 1. Olive Oil Think of olive oil as your versatile beauty savior. Marie Watkinson, founder of NYC’s Spa Chicks On The Go, swears by it. Just wet a cotton pad with water, add some olive oil, and swipe away your eye makeup. It’s gentle and won’t cause breakouts, plus it leaves your skin feeling soft and conditioned. 2. Coconut Oil Rachel Lozina from Blue Water Spa recommends coconut oil for its excellent dirt and makeup dissolving properties. It’s especially great for dry skin, but remember to rinse thoroughly if you have oily or acne-prone skin. 3. Jojoba Oil Jojoba oil is another fantastic option. According to Alexis Pfropper of asthetik skincare, it closely mimics the skin’s natural oils, making it suitable for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin. It effectively removes makeup without clogging pores. 4. Oil with a Pinch of Baking Soda For stubborn, silicone-based makeup, mix any oil (like jojoba, coconut, or olive) with a small pinch of baking soda. Elina Fedotova of Elina Organics advises against using this mix around the eyes, but it works wonders on the rest of your face. Cleanse and rinse thoroughly afterward. 5. Micellar Water If you have micellar water on hand, you’re in luck. This blend of oil and soft water is a powerful, effective makeup remover. It picks up residual makeup, oil, and dirt effortlessly, says Lozina. 6. Aloe Vera For a gentle and soothing option, turn to aloe vera. Ideal for sensitive skin, it’s great for removing light, non-waterproof makeup. Simply massage aloe vera gel onto your face with a cotton pad or your fingers, then rinse with water, advises Pfropper. 7. Witch Hazel Witch hazel is a fantastic astringent for those with oily skin. Lozina recommends following up with a hydrating serum and moisturizer if you have normal or dry skin. 8. Oat Flour, Water, and Honey For a gentle exfoliating scrub, mix oat flour with water and honey. Fedotova suggests applying this mixture as a mask for up to 10 minutes. As you rinse, massage your skin to let the oat particles exfoliate while honey soothes and decongests pores. Conclusion These DIY makeup removers are not only effective but also kind to your skin. Whether you prefer oils, natural ingredients, or a simple scrub, you’ll find a method that works for you. Embrace the simplicity and effectiveness of these homemade solutions and enjoy a fresh, clean face with ease. For more beauty tips and DIY recipes, check out resources like Byrdie and Allure.

beauty tutorials

How to Freeze Watermelon? A Step-by-Step Guide!

Honey, let’s get real for a second. Picking the perfect watermelon? It’s practically an art form. Some people just don’t have the touch, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a juicy, ripe watermelon that screams summer. If you’re hosting a barbecue or a pool party, this hydrating fruit isn’t just a snack—it’s the star of the show. But what happens when you have leftovers? Don’t even think about tossing them out. Freezing watermelon is your best bet to keep that summery goodness going all year long. So, let’s dive into how you can freeze watermelon like a pro. - Can You Freeze Watermelon? Oh honey, absolutely. If you find yourself with more watermelon than you know what to do with, freezing it is the way to go. Watermelon season is fleeting, so stash those juicy pieces in the freezer and savor them long after the sun sets on summer. - How to Freeze Watermelon Darling, freezing watermelon couldn’t be simpler. If you’ve got space in your freezer, grab a couple of baking sheets to make the process faster. Here’s the lowdown: 1. Prep Your Baking Sheet: Line it with parchment or wax paper. 2. Cut the Watermelon: Ditch the rind and seeds, then cut your watermelon into cubes or wedges. 3. Freeze: Spread the pieces on the sheet, making sure they’re not touching. Freeze until solid. 4. Store: Transfer the frozen pieces to a freezer bag or airtight container. Don’t forget to label with the date. 5. Enjoy: Use within 9 months to a year for the best quality. - How to Thaw Frozen Watermelon Ready to dive back into that frozen stash? Here’s how to do it right: 1. Fridge Time: Move the watermelon from the freezer to the fridge. 2.Timing: Let it thaw completely for up to 24 hours. If you’re making smoothies or desserts, you might prefer it slightly frozecheck every few hours until it’s perfect. - How to Use Frozen Watermelon Sweetie, frozen watermelon isn’t just for snacking. Get creative: 1. Smoothies and Cocktails: Think watermelon mojito granitas or boozy slushies. 2. Savory Dishes: Perfect for salad dressings and grain bowls. 3. Remember, thawed watermelon won’t have that crisp bite, so stick to using it in blended or liquid forms for the best results. - How Long Does Watermelon Last? Fresh watermelon lasts about 4-5 days once cut. But freeze it, and you’re looking at up to a year of deliciousness. So, darling, next time you’ve got leftover watermelon, you know exactly what to do. Enjoy that sweet taste of summer whenever you want!

Chatty Kitchen