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  • 5 Keys to the 2026 WHL Championship Final: How the Silvertips Win the Ed Chynoweth Cup Starting Tomorrow Night

    5 Keys to the 2026 WHL Championship Final: How the Silvertips Win the Ed Chynoweth Cup Starting Tomorrow Night

    Q: Can the Everett Silvertips finally win the WHL Championship?
    A: The 2026 Silvertips are the most talented team the franchise has ever sent into a WHL Final. With a historically elite goaltender, two first-round defensemen, and a forecheck that doesn’t let you breathe, they have every tool to close out Prince Albert in this series. Game 1 is Friday, May 8 at 7:00 PM PT at Angel of the Winds Arena.

    The Everett Silvertips have been to the WHL Championship Final three times. In 2004, they came close. In 2018, they came close again. Both times, the Ed Chynoweth Cup went somewhere else.

    Tomorrow night, they get a third shot — and this time, the roster has no excuses. The 2026 Everett Silvertips swept Portland in Round 1, beat Kelowna in five in Round 2, and swept the Penticton Vees in four games in the Western Conference Final, finishing the regular season with a league-best 54 wins and 111 points — their second consecutive Scotty Munro Memorial Trophy as the WHL’s best team. They are 12-1 in the playoffs heading into the WHL Championship Series. Their goaltender has been the most statistically dominant postseason goalie in WHL history by at least one measure.

    Their opponent, the Prince Albert Raiders, got here by eliminating the defending WHL champion Medicine Hat Tigers in a wild six-game series — winning the clincher 7-6 in hostile territory. They have two teenagers quarterarting their defense who are playing like veterans. They have a power play that fires at the worst possible times. They are not here by accident.

    This is the matchup. Game 1 is Friday, May 8 at 7:00 PM PT at Angel of the Winds Arena. The series follows a 2-3-2 format, with Games 1 and 2 in Everett, Games 3-5 in Prince Albert, and Games 6 and 7 (if needed) back home. Here are the five things that will decide whether the Ed Chynoweth Cup finally comes to Everett.

    1. Landon DuPont Has to Be the Best Player on the Ice

    Let’s start with the big one. Landon DuPont is 16 years old and already widely projected as a potential top-five pick — possibly No. 1 overall — in the 2027 NHL Draft. He had 17 points in 13 playoff games heading into the Finals, leading all WHL defensemen in postseason scoring through the Conference Finals. He is the engine of Everett’s power play, distributing from the blue line with the reads of a player ten years older.

    On the other side, Daxon Rudolph has been the story of the WHL playoffs — 23 points (9 goals, 14 assists) in 15 games, leading the entire WHL in postseason scoring as a 17-year-old defenseman. He was named WHL Player of the Month for April and quarterbacked the Raiders’ power play through their entire run against Medicine Hat. Two elite teenage defensemen, playing the biggest games of their lives. Whoever wins that battle wins the series.

    The edge goes to DuPont. He plays with composure that defies his age, and in the Penticton series, he was the one who consistently solved defensive zone problems before they became crises. But Rudolph is no afterthought — and if Prince Albert wins two games in Everett, his name will be part of the reason.

    2. Anders Miller Is Not Just Good — He’s Historic

    If you want one reason to feel genuinely confident about Everett’s chances, look at the guy in goal. Anders Miller, a mid-season acquisition, is carrying one of the most statistically dominant postseason runs in WHL history. Through the playoff rounds leading into the Finals, he went 12-0-1 with a 1.79 GAA, a .936 save percentage, and one shutout — ranking among the WHL playoff leaders in wins, GAA, save percentage, and shutouts simultaneously.

    No goaltender who has played nine or more games in a single WHL playoff has ever posted a higher save percentage than Miller did through the conference finals, per QuantHockey. That is the sentence coach Steve Hamilton gets to walk into this building with on Friday night.

    Prince Albert’s Michal Orsulak is fine — he made the saves he needed to make in a wild six-game series that sometimes produced 13 combined goals in a game. He is not in Miller’s statistical neighborhood right now. For the Silvertips, goaltending is the one position where they have a significant advantage entering this series, and that advantage can cover a lot of ground.

    3. The Power Play Battle Could Decide It in Four-Minute Swings

    Both teams run dangerous power plays. Everett’s man advantage runs through DuPont at the half-wall, with Matias Vanhanen (19 playoff points, the WHL’s scoring leader among Western Conference teams through the conference finals), Julius Miettinen (18 playoff points), Carter Bear, and Rylan Gould rotating around him. Gould has four power-play goals in these playoffs. When everything is clicking, this unit is one of the most dangerous man advantages in recent WHL playoff history.

    Prince Albert answers with Rudolph quarterbacking a unit that includes 16-year-old rookie Brock Cripps — who had three goals and 10 assists in 11 playoff games with a plus-8 rating — plus Braeden Cootes, who scored his sixth playoff goal in the clincher against Medicine Hat. The Raiders’ top power-play unit has been converting at a high rate all postseason.

    Discipline matters enormously here. Everett showed one exploitable tendency in the conference finals: the Silvertips allowed three empty-netter goals when opponents pulled their goalie late. If Prince Albert finds themselves trailing by one late in a game, they have the composure to make it interesting. Both teams need to avoid taking bad penalties early — power plays in tight WHL Final games can redirect an entire momentum shift.

    4. Can Prince Albert’s Young D Handle Everett’s Forecheck?

    Everett’s forecheck is the thing that opponents have struggled with all season. Bear, Miettinen, and Vanhanen are not finesse players — they are physical and relentless on pucks, and they generate sustained offensive zone time that wears defenses down. The Silvertips create turnovers in the offensive zone regularly, and once they have zone time, they cycle with patience until the right opportunity opens up for DuPont or one of their high-skill forwards.

    Rudolph’s offensive instincts mean he can turn a defensive-zone retrieval into a scoring chance with a single pass — giving the Raiders a quick-exit option that neutralizes sustained pressure better than most teams their age. Cripps alongside him means there’s always a second option out of the zone. But the Silvertips have faced experienced forechecks all playoffs and have only lost once in 13 games. Getting outworked in the corners isn’t something Everett’s opponents have been able to do consistently.

    In a long series, Everett’s forecheck may grind the Raiders’ young D into mistakes late in games. In Everett, in front of 8,000 fans at Angel of the Winds Arena, that forecheck pressure is going to feel different than anything Prince Albert has experienced this playoffs.

    5. The Weight of History — And Why This Time Is Different

    Everett has been here before, and that is either the motivating chip or the weight that breaks a team. In 2004 and 2018, the Silvertips reached the WHL Championship Final and came away without the trophy. That scar shapes the narrative heading into this series. The Raiders, meanwhile, have won the title twice — 1985 and 2019 — and they know what it takes to close.

    But this Silvertips group has something the 2004 and 2018 teams didn’t: a head coach who has been here before. Steve Hamilton, named WHL Coach of the Year this season, served as an associate coach on the 2013-14 Edmonton Oil Kings team that won the Memorial Cup. He understands high-leverage moments. He has managed this roster through adversity — including a blown 3-0 lead in Game 4 of the Kelowna series that required a third-period comeback — without the wheels coming off. Two Scotty Munro Trophies in two years says something about how this organization approaches the regular season. It is time to find out if that translates to the Final.

    The honest assessment from outside the green-and-silver glasses: Everett is the better team. Home ice, elite goaltending, the deepest offensive roster in the series, and a coaching staff that has been building toward this moment. Prince Albert is capable of stealing games — they eliminated the defending champions — but they need Orsulak to be considerably sharper than he was in a high-event Medicine Hat series, and they need Rudolph to keep performing at the level that has made him the most talked-about teenager in the WHL this spring.

    Prediction: Everett Silvertips in 5. The Silvertips are simply too deep, too well-coached, and too experienced in high-leverage games to let this one slip away. Get to Angel of the Winds Arena tomorrow night. This is what Everett hockey has been building toward.

    Game 1 Details

    • When: Friday, May 8 at 7:00 PM PT
    • Where: Angel of the Winds Arena, 2000 Hewitt Ave, Everett, WA
    • TV: TSN (Canada) / Victory+ (streaming)
    • Tickets: Available at everettsilvertips.com/playoffs
    • Series format: 2-3-2 (Games 1-2 in Everett; Games 3-5 in Prince Albert; Games 6-7 in Everett if needed)

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What time does WHL Final Game 1 start?

    Game 1 of the 2026 WHL Championship Series starts at 7:00 PM PT on Friday, May 8 at Angel of the Winds Arena in Everett.

    Where can I watch the WHL Final if I can’t attend?

    Games are broadcast on TSN in Canada and streamed on Victory+ in the United States. Check everettsilvertips.com for the latest broadcast info.

    Have the Silvertips ever won the WHL Championship?

    No. This is Everett’s third WHL Championship Final appearance — they appeared in 2004 and 2018 without winning. This is the first time the Silvertips have faced the Prince Albert Raiders for the Ed Chynoweth Cup.

    Who are the key players to watch for Everett?

    Landon DuPont (17 pts in 13 playoff games, potential 2027 #1 NHL draft pick), Matias Vanhanen (19 playoff pts), Julius Miettinen (18 playoff pts), Carter Bear (13 assists through conference finals), and goaltender Anders Miller (12-0-1, .936 SV%, 1.79 GAA) are the names to know.

    Who are the key players for Prince Albert?

    Daxon Rudolph (23 pts in 15 playoff games, WHL playoff scoring leader) and Brock Cripps (3G-10A in 11 games, plus-8) form a precociously talented defensive pair. Braeden Cootes is the key forward. Goaltender Michal Orsulak has made big saves in big moments all playoffs.

    What is the WHL Final series format?

    The 2026 WHL Championship Series is best-of-seven with a 2-3-2 format. Games 1 and 2 are in Everett, Games 3-5 are in Prince Albert, and Games 6 and 7 (if needed) return to Everett.

    Does the WHL Championship winner go to the Memorial Cup?

    Yes. The winner of the 2026 WHL Championship advances to the Memorial Cup, hosted in Kelowna, B.C., from May 22 to May 31.

    Related Everett Sports Coverage

  • Tahoma National Cemetery Is Getting a National Moment This Memorial Day — Here’s What NAVSTA Everett Families Need to Know for May 2026

    Tahoma National Cemetery Is Getting a National Moment This Memorial Day — Here’s What NAVSTA Everett Families Need to Know for May 2026

    Quick Answer: Tahoma National Cemetery in Kent is one of only three VA national cemeteries in the country where Carry The Load holds a Memorial May march — and the annual Memorial Day ceremony takes place on May 25 at 1:00 p.m. The VA’s 2026 Memorial May campaign brings national attention and nonprofit partners to Tahoma throughout May. For NAVSTA Everett families with a deployed sailor, the Fleet & Family Support Center at (425) 304-3735 offers deployment support resources to help families mark the holiday from home.

    Tahoma National Cemetery Has a National Spotlight in 2026: The Memorial Day Lineup Every Navy Family Near Everett Should Know

    For Navy families living near Naval Station Everett, Memorial Day carries a particular weight. When a sailor is deployed, the holiday becomes more than a community observance — it’s a day when the distance between home and ship feels most real.

    This year, Tahoma National Cemetery in Kent is at the center of something unusually significant: it’s one of only three VA national cemeteries in the United States where the nonprofit Carry The Load holds a Memorial May march. And the VA’s monthlong “Memorial May” campaign — now in full swing — makes May 2026 a more program-rich window for military families in Snohomish County than any prior year.

    Here’s everything happening at and around Tahoma this month, and what NAVSTA Everett families can do with it. (For a broader look at every Snohomish County site holding ceremonies, see our earlier Memorial Day 2026 county guide.)

    Carry The Load Came Through Kent on April 30

    Carry The Load, a Dallas-based nonprofit founded by two former Special Operations veterans, runs a nationwide Memorial May series every year to raise awareness about military and first responder sacrifice. Their annual calendar includes marches in 75+ locations across the country — but only three of those stops are at VA national cemeteries: Tahoma in Kent, Los Angeles National Cemetery, and Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis.

    On April 30, 2026, Carry The Load’s Memorial May march stopped at Tahoma from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Participants walked the cemetery grounds as part of a regional relay that had moved through Seattle’s The Shop Club the same afternoon. The event is officially partnered with the VA’s National Cemetery Administration as part of the Memorial May campaign.

    The significance of a national cemetery stop is more than ceremonial. It places Tahoma on the same three-stop list as two of the most recognized veteran burial grounds in the country — and it brings a new demographic of civilians, families, and community supporters into direct contact with the graves of those who served. That kind of public presence doesn’t happen at national cemeteries every month.

    What VA’s Memorial May 2026 Campaign Means for Tahoma

    The Department of Veterans Affairs formalized “Memorial May” as a monthlong campaign to activate public engagement at national cemeteries throughout May — not just on Memorial Day itself. In 2026, the VA is partnering with Carry The Load, Travis Manion Foundation, and Victory for Veterans throughout the month, coordinating volunteer activity, grave visits, and community programs at cemeteries across the country.

    Travis Manion Foundation’s Honor Project places hand-crafted commemorative tokens at the resting places of fallen service members at VA national cemeteries during Memorial Day weekend. Families who have lost a service member can submit a Fallen Heroes request online to have a foundation volunteer visit a specific gravesite, place a token, and pause for a moment of reflection. The Honor Project has been expanding its reach each year; in 2026 it covers more than 30 VA national cemeteries nationwide over Memorial Day weekend. (For Navy families navigating loss specifically, May is also Navy Gold Star Remembrance Month — with specific resources at NAVSTA Everett.)

    The May 25 Memorial Day Ceremony at Tahoma

    The annual Memorial Day ceremony at Tahoma National Cemetery is scheduled for Monday, May 25, 2026 at 1:00 p.m.

    Location: Tahoma National Cemetery, 18600 SE 240th Street, Kent, WA 98042

    The ceremony follows the traditional format: flags placed on every grave site, a formal program with color guard, and remarks from guest speakers representing the veteran community and elected officials. It is open to the public, and the VA encourages families — including those without a service member interred at Tahoma — to attend.

    Parking at Tahoma fills early. Plan to arrive at least 20 minutes before the ceremony begins. The cemetery grounds are on SE 240th Street with clearly marked entrances; GPS navigation works reliably to the address above.

    A national moment of remembrance also takes place at 3:00 p.m. local time throughout the country on Memorial Day. Participants are invited to pause for one minute — wherever they are — to honor the fallen. This observance is separate from any local ceremony and requires no registration.

    For NAVSTA Everett Families With a Deployed Sailor

    For the families of sailors currently deployed from Naval Station Everett, Memorial Day is one of the harder dates on the calendar. Observing a day built around sacrifice while your sailor is still underway requires its own kind of navigation. Some families find that being in a space like Tahoma — surrounded by others who understand — makes the day easier. Others prefer something quieter.

    Either way, the Fleet & Family Support Center (FFSC) at Naval Station Everett offers specific resources for families during deployment. Counselors are available to help families process the emotional complexity of holidays spent apart, and the FFSC’s peer support programs typically see higher participation around Memorial Day. The FFSC also maintains information on VA benefits, deployment financial planning, and community referrals for families who find themselves needing support this month.

    FFSC contact: (425) 304-3735 | Building 268, 2000 W. Marine View Drive, Everett, WA 98207 | Monday–Friday, 7:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. | After-hours emergency referrals available through the main line.

    The FFSC’s full suite of support services — including counseling, financial readiness programs, and deployment support groups — are available year-round, not just during major holidays.

    Other Snohomish County Observances to Know

    For veterans and families not making the drive to Kent, Snohomish County has its own observances. The Eternal Flame at the Drewel Building in downtown Everett serves as a permanent county memorial and is near the Snohomish County Veterans Assistance Program offices (425-388-3448) — a practical stop for any veteran navigating benefits or financial assistance this spring. Floral Hills Memorial Gardens in Lynnwood and Evergreen Cemetery in Everett both hold community observances on May 25.

    Coming Up: May 9 Veterans Food Drive in Edmonds

    If you want to support Snohomish County’s 50,000+ veterans in a more hands-on way before Memorial Day, the Edmonds American Legion Post 66 and VFW Post 8870 are hosting a veterans food and hygiene drive on Saturday, May 9, at the Wilcox Construction Red Barn in downtown Edmonds. Drop-off hours are 10 a.m.–2 p.m.; donations are routed through the Edmonds Food Bank and Lynnwood Heroes’ Café to veterans in need across the county.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What time is the Memorial Day ceremony at Tahoma National Cemetery in 2026?

    The ceremony is scheduled for Monday, May 25, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at 18600 SE 240th Street, Kent, WA 98042. Arrive at least 20 minutes early — parking fills quickly.

    What is Carry The Load and why did they march at Tahoma?

    Carry The Load is a Dallas-based nonprofit that runs a national Memorial May march series to honor military, veterans, and first responders. Tahoma is one of only three VA national cemeteries in the country selected as a Carry The Load march stop. The organization marched at Tahoma on April 30, 2026 from 5:30–7:30 p.m.

    What is the VA’s Memorial May campaign?

    Memorial May is the VA National Cemetery Administration’s monthlong outreach initiative for May 2026. It activates nonprofit partners — Carry The Load, Travis Manion Foundation, and Victory for Veterans — to honor veterans at national cemeteries throughout the month, not just on Memorial Day itself.

    What is the Travis Manion Foundation’s Honor Project?

    The Honor Project places hand-crafted commemorative tokens at the graves of fallen service members at VA national cemeteries over Memorial Day weekend. Families can submit a Fallen Heroes request through travismanion.org to have a volunteer visit a specific gravesite and pause in reflection.

    What resources does NAVSTA Everett offer for deployed families during Memorial Day?

    The Fleet & Family Support Center at (425) 304-3735 offers counseling, peer support groups, and deployment family programs. Memorial Day is a period when the FFSC encourages deployed families to reach out. Hours are Monday–Friday, 7:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m., with after-hours referrals available.

    Is there a national moment of remembrance on Memorial Day 2026?

    Yes — a national moment of remembrance takes place at 3:00 p.m. local time on Memorial Day (May 25). Participants pause for one minute wherever they are to honor the fallen. No registration required.

    Where else can Snohomish County veterans and families observe Memorial Day?

    Key local observances include the Eternal Flame at the Drewel Building in Everett, Floral Hills Memorial Gardens in Lynnwood, and Evergreen Cemetery in Everett. The Snohomish County Veterans Assistance Program at the Drewel Building (425-388-3448) can provide additional guidance on benefits and events.

  • For Navy Families at NAVSTA Everett: A Military Parent’s Guide to Boys & Girls Club Programs for Kids With a Deployed Parent

    For Navy Families at NAVSTA Everett: A Military Parent’s Guide to Boys & Girls Club Programs for Kids With a Deployed Parent

    Q: What does the Boys & Girls Club offer for Navy families at NAVSTA Everett with a deployed parent?
    A: The Boys & Girls Club of Snohomish County serves kids ages 5–18 at two Everett-area locations. For Navy families with a deployed parent, the Club’s most relevant programs are: before and after-school care (predictable daily coverage for working or single parents), summer camp (all-day coverage through the summer break), and Power Hour homework help. The Club’s accessibility model — with fee assistance available — is designed for working families at all income levels. The Everett Club has been serving this community since 1946.

    Deployment Creates a Child Care Gap That the Club Fills

    When a sailor deploys from Naval Station Everett, the at-home parent takes on everything. Every school pickup. Every dinner. Every help-with-homework evening. Every school break and summer week. For single-income families, or for spouses who work — which is most families — the logistics of covering childcare during deployment without a second adult in the house is the hardest practical part of Navy family life.

    The Boys & Girls Club doesn’t solve deployment. But it directly addresses some of the most stressful parts of the daily logistics. Here’s what matters most for Navy families specifically.

    The Three Programs That Matter Most During Deployment

    After-School Care: Predictable Daily Coverage

    The gap between school dismissal (typically 3:00–3:30 PM) and the end of a working parent’s shift is the daily logistics problem that compounds across a deployment. The Club’s after-school care program fills that window with structured, safe, adult-supervised time. Kids do homework (via Power Hour), participate in activities, and stay in a consistent environment until pickup. For a Navy spouse working any kind of shift job — at NAVSTA itself, at a hospital, at Boeing’s facilities, or anywhere in Snohomish County — predictable after-school coverage is one less thing to coordinate.

    Summer Camp: All-Day Coverage Through the Summer Break

    Summer is the hardest childcare period for deployed families. School ends. The structure disappears. The days are long. And a single parent who works full-time doesn’t have the option of handling it informally. The Club’s summer camp runs all day through the full summer break — structured activities, field trips, STEM, sports, arts. Summer 2026 registration is open now.

    For Navy families who have used the Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood (MCCYN) program or Military Child Care (MCC) subsidies, the Club is a community-based option that may qualify. Families should check with NAVSTA Everett’s Family Service Center for current subsidy availability and eligibility.

    Power Hour: Homework Support When You’re Running on Empty

    When a deployed parent isn’t home, the at-home parent handles everything after pickup — dinner, baths, bedtime, and homework. Power Hour takes homework off that list. Kids complete their assignments during a structured after-school period with Club staff support, which means they arrive home with homework done. For an Everett parent who just worked a full day and is running a household solo, that hour matters.

    Location and Access for NAVSTA Families

    The main Everett Boys & Girls Club has been at its current North Everett location since 1965 — it’s within the city’s residential core and accessible from the base by surface streets. The South Everett/Mukilteo Club serves families in South Everett neighborhoods. Between the two locations, the Club’s geographic coverage is broad enough to serve most NAVSTA Everett families regardless of where they live in the city.

    NAVSTA Everett families often live throughout Snohomish County — including neighborhoods like Rucker Hill, Bayside, North Everett, and further north toward Mukilteo and south toward Lynnwood. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Snohomish County network’s 27 total clubs county-wide means there’s likely a location near wherever your family lives.

    The Accessibility and Fee Assistance Reality

    Navy pay scales are publicly available, and E-5 through E-7 families — the backbone of NAVSTA Everett’s population — are working families, not high earners. The Club’s fee structure is designed for accessibility, with fee assistance available for families who need it. The organization has served working-class Everett families since its founding in 1946 and treats affordability as a core commitment rather than an exception.

    Families should ask directly about fee assistance when contacting the Club. The process is not complicated, and the Club’s staff are experienced in working with military families navigating tight budgets during deployment cycles.

    Additional NAVSTA Resources That Pair With the Club

    The Boys & Girls Club is one piece of the support network for deployed Navy families in Everett. NAVSTA Everett’s Fleet and Family Support Center (FFSC) provides additional resources: counseling, financial assistance referrals, childcare subsidy coordination, and the Ombudsman program for family communication during deployment. The complete Boys & Girls Club guide covers all programs in depth. For a wider look at community support in Everett, the Volunteers of America Western Washington guide covers programs for housing, food, and family services across the city.

    Frequently Asked Questions for Navy Families

    Does the Boys & Girls Club accept military child care subsidies?

    The Club may qualify under Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood (MCCYN) or similar DoD childcare assistance programs. Families should contact NAVSTA Everett’s Fleet and Family Support Center (FFSC) and the Club directly to confirm current eligibility and subsidy availability for 2026.

    How do I enroll my child during a deployment?

    Contact Boys & Girls Clubs of Snohomish County directly — the at-home parent can complete enrollment without the deployed parent present. Summer 2026 registration is open now. Club staff can walk you through the enrollment process and fee assistance options.

    What ages does the Club serve?

    Ages 5–18. The Club has programs for elementary-age children, middle schoolers, and teens. Summer camp and after-school care serve the full range; specific programs vary by age group.

    Is there a Boys & Girls Club near NAVSTA Everett?

    The main Everett Club is in North Everett and has been at its current location since 1965. It’s accessible from NAVSTA by surface streets. For families in South Everett, the South Everett/Mukilteo Club provides additional coverage. The 27-club county network means most NAVSTA families, wherever they live in Snohomish County, have a Club within reasonable distance.

    What support does NAVSTA Everett’s FFSC offer alongside the Boys & Girls Club?

    NAVSTA Everett’s Fleet and Family Support Center provides counseling, financial assistance referrals, childcare subsidy coordination, and the Ombudsman program for family communication during deployment. The FFSC and the Boys & Girls Club are complementary resources — the Club provides daily childcare structure; the FFSC provides family support services and military-specific resources.

  • AquaSox Are Rolling: 2-0 on the Hillsboro Homestand With Four Games Left at Funko Field This Weekend

    AquaSox Are Rolling: 2-0 on the Hillsboro Homestand With Four Games Left at Funko Field This Weekend

    Q: What AquaSox games are left in the Hillsboro Hops homestand?
    Four games remain at Funko Field: Thursday May 7 (7:05 PM), Friday May 8 (7:05 PM), Saturday May 9 (7:05 PM), and Sunday May 10 (1:05 PM). The AquaSox lead the series 2-0 after wins of 8-6 Tuesday and 10-0 Wednesday.

    The Everett AquaSox have been doing something this week that Funko Field fans are going to want to show up and watch. Through two games of the six-game home series against the Hillsboro Hops, the Frogs are 2-0, have outscored their guests 18-6, and have shown off the full toolkit: a stolen base game Tuesday, a shutout by a future major league starter Wednesday, two home runs in two nights from different guys, and Felnin Celesten going absolutely nuclear from the left side of the plate.

    Four games remain. Hillsboro is 11-18. The AquaSox are chasing first place in the NWL first half. This is the moment.

    The Remaining Schedule

    Thursday, May 7 — 7:05 PM PT at Funko Field
    Friday, May 8 — 7:05 PM PT at Funko Field
    Saturday, May 9 — 7:05 PM PT at Funko Field
    Sunday, May 10 — 1:05 PM PT at Funko Field (series finale)

    Tickets at aquasox.com. Funko Field is at 3802 Broadway in Everett.

    Three Reasons the Next Four Games Matter

    1. The First-Half Race Is Still On
    The AquaSox are now 17-14 in the NWL first half, in third place behind the Eugene Emeralds (22-6). That’s a 7.5-game gap with meaningful games still on the board. Sweeping Hillsboro — or going 4-0 — won’t close that gap entirely, but it closes it. Four wins against a team this far below .500 is exactly the kind of run that creates momentum. The Frogs play like this for four more games and suddenly the second half of May has a different feel.

    2. Felnin Celesten Is Must-Watch Baseball Right Now
    The back-to-back NWL Player of the Week went 3-for-5 again Wednesday to go along with 2 RBI. He is now hitting .295 on the season with 26 hits and 18 runs scored — both team leads. He is the best hitter in the Northwest League right now, and he plays every night at a park 10 minutes from downtown Everett. Come watch him.

    3. The Power Surge Is Real
    Luke Stevenson hit a two-run homer Wednesday. Carter Dorighi hit a three-run homer. Brandon Eike has six on the season. Curtis Washington Jr. launched one Tuesday. The AquaSox lineup has found its power, and a Hillsboro pitching staff that has given up runs all season is not going to stop it. Expect balls to leave Funko Field this weekend.

    Friday Night: A Uniquely Everett Problem

    Friday, May 8 presents a genuinely impossible decision for Everett sports fans. The AquaSox play at Funko Field at 7:05 PM. The Silvertips host the Prince Albert Raiders in WHL Championship Final Game 1 at Angel of the Winds Arena at 7:00 PM. These venues are two miles apart. Both events are meaningful. Both are worth attending.

    There is no right answer. Pick the one that speaks to you most. Or get to Angel of the Winds early, catch the first period of the Silvertips game, then slip over to Funko Field for the later innings. Everett has never had this problem before. Enjoy it.

    Who to Watch This Weekend

    Beyond Celesten, keep an eye on Luke Stevenson — the Mariners’ No. 8 prospect just had his best offensive night of 2026. Watch how pitchers approach him now that he has shown the ability to take a two-run shot to right-center. Also: Brock Moore out of the bullpen. The NWL Bullpen Award winner has been automatic in high-leverage spots, and the Frogs will need him to keep delivering if the rotation is working through shorter outings in the back half of this series.

    The homestand wraps Sunday at 1:05 PM. If you go to one game this weekend, go Sunday — matinee baseball at a community ballpark on a spring afternoon, with a team that is genuinely good right now. That’s as Everett as it gets.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the AquaSox home schedule for the Hillsboro series?

    Thursday May 7 at 7:05 PM, Friday May 8 at 7:05 PM, Saturday May 9 at 7:05 PM, and Sunday May 10 at 1:05 PM — all at Funko Field in Everett.

    What is the AquaSox record in the 2026 Northwest League first half?

    After Wednesday’s 10-0 win, the AquaSox are 17-14, in third place in the NWL first half, 7.5 games behind the first-place Eugene Emeralds (22-6).

    Who is the hottest hitter on the AquaSox right now?

    Felnin Celesten. The back-to-back NWL Player of the Week is batting .295 with 26 hits and 18 runs scored on the season, and went 3-for-5 with 2 RBI on Wednesday.

    Is there a conflict between the AquaSox and Silvertips on Friday May 8?

    Yes. AquaSox play at Funko Field at 7:05 PM; Silvertips host WHL Championship Final Game 1 at Angel of the Winds Arena at 7:00 PM. Both venues are about two miles apart in Everett. Tickets for both are available through their respective box offices.

  • How to Watch the Silvertips WHL Championship Final: TSN, Victory+, Game Times, and Tickets

    How to Watch the Silvertips WHL Championship Final: TSN, Victory+, Game Times, and Tickets

    Q: How can I watch the Everett Silvertips in the 2026 WHL Championship Final?
    Games 1 and 2 at Angel of the Winds Arena (May 8 at 7:00 PM PDT and May 9 at 6:00 PM PDT) are available in person via Ticketmaster. All games are broadcast live on TSN in Canada and streamed globally for free on Victory+. Games 3 and 4 in Prince Albert (May 12–13) are streaming-only for most Everett fans.

    The Everett Silvertips are in the WHL Championship Final for the first time since 2018 — and this time, the broadcast setup means every fan in the world can watch for free. Here is your complete guide to catching Games 1 and 2 at home or in the arena this Friday and Saturday, and tuning in for the road games in Prince Albert when the series shifts east.

    The Full Schedule

    Game 1: Friday, May 8 — 7:00 PM PDT — Angel of the Winds Arena, Everett
    Game 2: Saturday, May 9 — 6:00 PM PDT — Angel of the Winds Arena, Everett
    Game 3: Tuesday, May 12 — Art Hauser Centre, Prince Albert, Saskatchewan
    Game 4: Wednesday, May 13 — Art Hauser Centre, Prince Albert, Saskatchewan
    Game 5 (if needed): Friday, May 16 — Angel of the Winds Arena, Everett
    Game 6 (if needed): Sunday, May 18 — Art Hauser Centre, Prince Albert
    Game 7 (if needed): Tuesday, May 20 — Angel of the Winds Arena, Everett

    How to Watch on TV (Canada)

    TSN carries the full 2026 WHL Championship Series presented by Nutrien in Canada, alongside RDS for French-language coverage. Every game in the series will be telecast live. If you’re a Canadian fan or know someone in Canada, the TSN stream via TSN Direct is the cleanest broadcast option with the full pre-game and intermission coverage.

    How to Stream for Free (Victory+)

    This is the big news for Everett fans who won’t be at Angel of the Winds Arena in person: Victory+ is streaming every game of the 2026 WHL Championship Series globally, for free. No subscription required. No paywall. Every game — including the road games in Prince Albert — is available anywhere in the world on the Victory+ platform.

    Victory+ is the CHL’s official streaming partner. You can find the stream at victoryplusapp.com or through the Victory+ app on iOS, Android, Roku, Apple TV, and Amazon Fire. Just search “WHL Championship” once Game 1 goes live at 7:00 PM PDT Friday.

    The Broadcast Team

    The telecast features Peter Loubardias handling play-by-play duties, joined by longtime WHL analyst Kelly Remple providing color commentary, and Cami Kepke — an award-winning sports reporter — working the rinkside. It’s a polished broadcast team for a championship-caliber series.

    Tickets for Games 1 and 2 at Angel of the Winds

    Games 1 and 2 are at Angel of the Winds Arena in Everett on Friday and Saturday. Tickets are available at Ticketmaster and through the Silvertips box office at silvertips.com. This is the first WHL Championship Final in Everett since 2018, and the arena will be loud. If you’ve been waiting for the right playoff game to attend in person, this is it.

    A note for Friday night: the Everett AquaSox are also playing at Funko Field at 7:05 PM against the Hillsboro Hops. Everett has two simultaneous playoff and championship-level events happening Friday night — two different venues, two different sports, both with something real on the line. Plan your night accordingly.

    What the Silvertips Bring Into This Series

    The Silvertips enter the Final with a 12-1 playoff record, having swept the Kelowna Rockets in Round 2 and the Penticton Vees in the Western Conference Final. Goaltender Anders Miller has posted a .948 save percentage — the best mark in WHL playoff history for goaltenders with nine or more games played. Landon DuPont and Carter Bear have each scored 10 or more playoff goals. The Silvertips allowed just 12 goals in their 12 wins. They are not built to lose.

    The Prince Albert Raiders won the Eastern Conference Final to earn their spot. This is the first time these two franchises have met in the WHL Championship Final. Everett is seeking its first Ed Chynoweth Cup and its first Memorial Cup berth in franchise history.

    Friday at 7:00 PM. Victory+. Free. No excuses not to watch.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Where can I watch the Silvertips WHL Championship Final online for free?

    All games are available free globally on Victory+ (victoryplusapp.com and the Victory+ app). No subscription required.

    What time is Silvertips WHL Final Game 1?

    Game 1 is Friday, May 8 at 7:00 PM PDT at Angel of the Winds Arena in Everett, Washington.

    What time is Silvertips WHL Final Game 2?

    Game 2 is Saturday, May 9 at 6:00 PM PDT at Angel of the Winds Arena in Everett, Washington.

    Where are Games 3 and 4 of the WHL Championship Final?

    Games 3 and 4 are Tuesday, May 12 and Wednesday, May 13 at the Art Hauser Centre in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan. Both will be streamed free on Victory+.

    Where can I buy tickets for the Silvertips WHL Final?

    Tickets for Games 1 and 2 at Angel of the Winds Arena are available at Ticketmaster and through silvertips.com.

  • Bryce Miller Goes Five Scoreless as AquaSox Demolish Hillsboro 10-0 on Silver Sluggers Night

    Bryce Miller Goes Five Scoreless as AquaSox Demolish Hillsboro 10-0 on Silver Sluggers Night

    Q: Did Bryce Miller pitch for the AquaSox on May 6, 2026?
    Yes. Miller threw five shutout innings in a 10-0 win over the Hillsboro Hops at Funko Field on Silver Sluggers Night, allowing just two hits. Luke Stevenson led the offense with four RBI and a two-run homer; Carter Dorighi added a three-run blast; Felnin Celesten went 3-for-5.

    The Funko Field faithful showed up for Silver Sluggers Night on Wednesday and got exactly the kind of baseball that makes you leave smiling: a 10-0 demolition of the Hillsboro Hops, with Seattle Mariners ace Bryce Miller dialing in across five innings and the AquaSox offense hitting everything hard and often.

    Miller, working his way back from the oblique strain that kept him off Seattle’s Opening Day roster, went five full innings, allowed just two hits, walked three, and struck out two. More importantly: the Hops didn’t score once while he was on the mound. For a pitcher returning from injury, zero runs in five innings tells the story cleanly. Miller has now thrown eight combined scoreless innings across two AquaSox appearances — five tonight and three on April 24 against Spokane — and his return to Seattle feels imminent.

    Stevenson Does It Again

    Luke Stevenson went 2-for-4 with four RBI and his second homer of 2026 — a two-run shot to right-center that extended the lead in the middle innings. Earlier, Stevenson drove in two more with a sharp double to center, his eighth two-bagger of the season. Four RBI on two hits is the kind of efficient night that makes scouts take notice. The Mariners’ No. 8 prospect is making a case for promotion every time he steps up.

    Dorighi’s Three-Run Blast, Celesten Stays Hot

    Carter Dorighi contributed a three-run homer to right-center — his second of 2026 — plating Austin St. Laurent and Anthony Donofrio ahead of him. Hillsboro starter Brian Curley lasted just 3.1 innings, surrendering all 10 of Everett’s earned runs on 10 hits. When your starter gets tagged for 10 hits and 10 ER before the fifth inning, it’s that kind of night.

    And Felnin Celesten just keeps hitting. The NWL’s back-to-back Player of the Week went 3-for-5 on the night with two RBI, continuing one of the hottest stretches in any High-A lineup right now. Celesten is batting .295 on the season with 26 hits and 18 runs scored. Brandon Eike chipped in a run-scoring single as well, his RBI total rising steadily alongside his team-leading six home runs.

    The Bullpen Was Spotless

    After Miller’s five innings, the Everett bullpen delivered three more hitless frames. Reid Easterly went two innings, allowing one hit while striking out four. Christian Little added a scoreless seventh, and Brock Moore — the NWL’s reigning Bullpen Award winner — closed the ninth with two strikeouts on a clean frame. The Hops were held scoreless for all nine innings. That’s a complete team performance.

    2-0 in the Series, Four Games to Go

    The AquaSox are now 17-14 and 2-0 against the Hops in this six-game homestand — winning 8-6 Tuesday behind Curtis Washington Jr.’s homer, and 10-0 Wednesday with Miller’s gem. At 7.5 games back of the first-half leading Eugene Emeralds (22-6) in the Northwest League, this homestand against a struggling Hillsboro squad (11-18) is exactly the kind of opportunity the Frogs need. Four games remain — Thursday through Sunday — with first pitch at 7:05 PM Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, and a matinee Sunday. If you haven’t gotten to Funko Field yet this week, Thursday is your shot before the WHL Championship Final adds a second championship event to the Everett calendar starting Friday night at Angel of the Winds Arena.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What was the final score of the AquaSox vs. Hillsboro Hops game on May 6, 2026?

    Everett AquaSox 10, Hillsboro Hops 0 at Funko Field on Silver Sluggers Night, Wednesday, May 6, 2026.

    How did Bryce Miller pitch in his May 6 rehab start?

    Miller threw five innings, allowing two hits and zero earned runs, walking three and striking out two. He has now thrown eight combined scoreless innings across two AquaSox rehab appearances (3 IP on April 24, 5 IP on May 6).

    Who led the AquaSox offense on May 6?

    Luke Stevenson led with four RBI including a two-run homer. Carter Dorighi hit a three-run homer. Felnin Celesten went 3-for-5 with two RBI.

    When is the next AquaSox home game?

    Thursday, May 7 at 7:05 PM at Funko Field vs. the Hillsboro Hops. Tickets at aquasox.com.

    What is the AquaSox’s Northwest League first-half record?

    After tonight’s win, the AquaSox are 17-14 in the first half, third in the NWL, 7.5 games behind the first-place Eugene Emeralds (22-6).

  • HII’s Q1 Report Is the First Investor Confirmation FF(X) Is on Track — What It Means for Naval Station Everett’s Homeport Timeline

    HII’s Q1 Report Is the First Investor Confirmation FF(X) Is on Track — What It Means for Naval Station Everett’s Homeport Timeline

    What is the current status of the FF(X) frigate program?
    The Navy’s FF(X) frigate program is on track. HII’s Ingalls Shipbuilding was awarded a $282.9M lead yard contract on April 28, 2026. The FY2027 presidential budget request includes funding for the first hull. In HII’s Q1 2026 earnings call on May 5, company executives called FF(X) a “meaningful upside opportunity” to their medium-term outlook. Homeport has not yet been assigned. Naval Station Everett remains among the leading candidates.

    What the Q1 Report Actually Shows

    Huntington Ingalls Industries reported first-quarter 2026 revenue of $3.1 billion, up 13.4 percent year over year. Ingalls Shipbuilding — the Pascagoula, Mississippi division that will build the FF(X) — recorded $725 million in quarterly revenue, an increase of $88 million, or 13.8 percent, from the same period in 2025. The company attributed that increase “primarily to higher volumes in surface combatants.”

    To be precise about the timeline: Q1 2026 ended on March 31, and the FF(X) lead yard contract was not awarded until April 28. That means the Q1 surface combatant revenue growth reflects Ingalls’ existing work — primarily Arleigh Burke-class destroyer production — not FF(X) activity yet. What the Q1 numbers demonstrate instead is that Ingalls is a shipyard operating at full tempo, generating strong revenue from exactly the class of ships the FF(X) is designed to complement. That matters because the FF(X) program requires a yard that can ramp quickly, and Ingalls is doing that now.

    What the Earnings Call Said About FF(X)

    HII’s management team made two substantive references to the frigate program during the May 5 call. The first concerned the FY2027 budget request. The Trump administration submitted a top-level fiscal year 2027 budget to Congress in early April. HII confirmed that the proposal includes funding for the first FF(X) frigate — a discrete line item in the Navy’s $65.8 billion shipbuilding request. Also in that budget: one Columbia-class submarine, two Virginia-class submarines, one Arleigh Burke destroyer, one LPD-17 amphibious transport dock, and one LHA-6 amphibious assault ship. The FF(X) is on that list as a fully budgeted program, not a placeholder.

    The second was language about HII’s medium-term financial outlook. Executives described the new battleship and frigate programs as “meaningful upside opportunities” to their forward projections. In investor communications, that phrasing is deliberate. It signals that FF(X) is expected to grow Ingalls’ revenue materially — and that the company building the ships is committed to the program in a way that matters to shareholders.

    HII also reported total backlog of $54.0 billion, “supported by major aircraft carrier, submarine, and surface combatant programs.” The $282.9 million FF(X) lead yard contract awarded on April 28, 2026 is now part of that backlog.

    The Procurement Plan in Full

    The FF(X) program structure was confirmed when the Navy awarded the Ingalls contract last month. The initial $282.9 million contract funds pre-construction activities — long-lead material procurement, design refinement, and detailed engineering. The first $80.6 million tranche allows work to begin immediately. Ingalls is the designated lead yard for the first two ships under a sole-source arrangement.

    The FY2027 budget request funds the first FF(X) hull at $1.429 billion against a full ship cost of $1.671 billion. A Critical Design Review is scheduled for 2026, after which the design is frozen and steel cutting begins. The Navy targets launch of the first ship by late 2028 and delivery by mid-2030. From the third ship onward, the program transitions to competitive procurement. The total objective is 22 ships. One hull is planned in FY2027, one in FY2029, two in FY2031, with rates increasing in subsequent flights. The economic impact of a 22-ship program for Snohomish County has been estimated at roughly $340 million annually if Everett wins the homeport.

    What Is Still Open for Everett

    The one question HII’s earnings call did not answer — because it is not HII’s decision — is homeport. Naval Station Everett has made the economic and strategic case for hosting the FF(X) fleet. Snohomish County’s Military Affairs Committee has maintained contact with the Washington congressional delegation, including Representative Rick Larsen on the House Armed Services Committee. The argument centers on Everett’s existing surface combatant infrastructure, the city’s Navy-rooted identity, and the multiplier effect of basing a twelve-ship fleet at an already-operational installation.

    The homeport decision follows a formal process: the Navy evaluates installations against requirements including pier capacity, maintenance support, housing inventory, and operational access, then submits a preferred homeport to Congress for review. That process typically runs after the lead ship’s design is finalized — meaning the homeport decision is not imminent, but the clock is running. Meanwhile, NAVSTA Everett’s destroyers, including USS Gridley, continue active fleet operations that demonstrate the base’s operational readiness.

    What Comes Next

    Three near-term milestones are worth tracking for Everett residents and military families:

    Congressional appropriations action. The FY2027 presidential budget request includes funding for the first FF(X) hull. That request must pass through the House and Senate Armed Services Committees and the Appropriations Committees before it becomes law. Representative Larsen’s seat on the House Armed Services Committee keeps Snohomish County directly represented in that process.

    The Critical Design Review. Scheduled for 2026, the CDR is when Ingalls and the Navy formally lock the final design. Confirmation that the CDR has occurred will be the next major program milestone after the initial contract award.

    Homeport announcement timing. Industry analysts tracking the program expect a homeport decision no earlier than 2027, after the FY2027 appropriation is finalized and the design is mature enough for the Navy to make precise infrastructure requirements. Everett’s case improves with each funding confirmation.

    For now, the FF(X) program has cleared the two gating tests that most new defense programs fail early: it has received its first contract award, and the company building it has publicly confirmed to investors that it represents meaningful future revenue. The engineering and the money are aligned. Everett’s task is to make sure the homeport decision follows.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    When will the first FF(X) frigate be delivered to the Navy?

    The current schedule targets launch of the first ship by late 2028 and delivery to the fleet by mid-2030, based on the lead yard contract terms and HII’s May 5 earnings disclosures.

    Why is Ingalls Shipbuilding building the FF(X)?

    HII’s Ingalls Shipbuilding in Pascagoula, Mississippi is the designated lead yard for the first two FF(X) hulls under a sole-source arrangement. The program transitions to competitive procurement starting at the third ship.

    How much will the first FF(X) frigate cost?

    The FY2027 presidential budget request funds the first hull at $1.429 billion. The Navy’s full ship cost estimate is $1.671 billion.

    Is the FF(X) the same as the Constellation-class frigate?

    No. The Constellation-class program was cancelled by the Navy on November 25, 2025 due to cost overruns and delays at Fincantieri Marinette Marine. The FF(X) is a new, accelerated program based on the National Security Cutter (Legend-class) design and is being built at Ingalls in Pascagoula.

    How many FF(X) frigates will be built?

    The Navy’s current plan calls for 22 FF(X) frigates across multiple production flights. One ship is planned in FY2027, one in FY2029, and two in FY2031, with production rates increasing in subsequent years.

    What is HII’s total backlog as of Q1 2026?

    HII reported a total backlog of $54.0 billion as of Q1 2026, supported by aircraft carrier, submarine, and surface combatant programs. This now includes the $282.9 million FF(X) lead yard contract awarded on April 28, 2026.

    When will the FF(X) homeport be decided?

    The Navy has not announced a homeport for FF(X) ships. Industry analysts expect the decision no earlier than 2027, after FY2027 appropriations are finalized and the Critical Design Review is complete. Naval Station Everett is among the leading candidates.

    Why does Everett want the FF(X) homeport?

    NAVSTA Everett already operates five Arleigh Burke-class destroyers and has the pier, maintenance, and support infrastructure to host surface combatants. Snohomish County’s Military Affairs Committee has estimated a twelve-ship FF(X) homeport would generate roughly $340 million in annual economic activity for the region.

  • Celesten Does It Again, Stevenson Wins April Hitter Award: The AquaSox Prospect Pipeline Is for Real

    Celesten Does It Again, Stevenson Wins April Hitter Award: The AquaSox Prospect Pipeline Is for Real

    Q: Which AquaSox players won Mariners minor league awards for April 2026?
    A: Catcher Luke Stevenson won the Mariners Minor League Hitter of the Month, and right-hander Brock Moore won the bullpen award. Additionally, shortstop Felnin Celesten earned NWL Player of the Week honors for the second consecutive week in May.

    The AquaSox Prospect Pipeline Is Producing — In a Big Way

    Most Everett fans probably know Felnin Celesten is one of the more exciting young shortstops in the Mariners system. They might know Jonny Farmelo is a top-6 organizational prospect. But the 2026 AquaSox roster runs deeper than that — and April’s organizational awards, combined with Celesten’s back-to-back NWL Player of the Week honors, paint a picture of a High-A squad that is legitimately developed from top to bottom.

    Here is your guide to the names making noise right now at Funko Field.

    Felnin Celesten: Back-to-Back NWL Player of the Week

    Celesten earned Northwest League Player of the Week honors for the second straight week — an award announced on May 4 — making him the most recognizable name on the AquaSox right now outside of visiting pitchers on rehab assignments. His first POTW came after he went .471 (11-for-17) in five games against the Spokane Indians. He followed that with a .434 average in the Hillsboro Hops’ ballpark, recording at least one hit in every game of that road series and posting three multi-hit performances.

    Through the early part of May, Celesten is hitting .295 on the season — which undersells how hot he has been — while leading the entire AquaSox team in hits (26) and runs scored (18). The 20-year-old Venezuelan shortstop signed with the Mariners as an international free agent in 2023 and is already one of the youngest players in the Northwest League. Two consecutive POTW awards this early in the season is the kind of noise that accelerates prospect timelines.

    Watch his name carefully. The Mariners have been patient with his development, and nights like the ones he strung together in April and early May suggest the patience is being rewarded.

    Luke Stevenson: Mariners’ April Hitter of the Month

    Stevenson did not just have a good April — he had an elite April. The Seattle Mariners announced him as their Minor League Hitter of the Month for April 2026, and the numbers back it up completely: .321 batting average, six doubles, one home run, 10 RBIs, 20 walks, .500 on-base percentage, and a .982 OPS. Twenty walks in one month. That is a number you do not expect to see from a High-A hitter who was drafted just last year.

    Stevenson is the No. 35 overall pick from the 2025 MLB Draft out of the University of North Carolina — the Mariners’ catcher of the future, ranked as the organization’s No. 8 prospect. He is 22 years old, from Flemington, New Jersey, and plays with a veteran’s plate approach that belies his experience level. That .500 OBP is not an accident — it reflects elite pitch recognition and the willingness to work counts and take walks even when pitchers are challenging him.

    In Tuesday’s 8-6 win over Hillsboro, Stevenson delivered an RBI single in the first inning to give Everett the early lead — exactly the kind of contribution you want from your cleanup presence behind high-ceiling tools. He is setting the tone for an AquaSox offense that is beginning to find its rhythm on the homestand.

    Brock Moore: The Bullpen’s Secret Weapon

    If Stevenson is the headline, Moore might be the most dominant performer on the entire AquaSox roster right now. The 25-year-old right-hander from Carmel, Indiana — a seventh-round pick in the 2024 draft out of the University of Oregon — won the Mariners’ Minor League Bullpen Award for April, and the stats are borderline absurd:

    8.1 innings pitched. 20 strikeouts. 1 walk. 4 saves. 2.16 ERA. 0.48 WHIP. Three hits allowed all month. Two earned runs total.

    Twenty strikeouts against one walk in 8.1 innings. That is a 20-to-1 K/BB ratio, which is extraordinary at any level of professional baseball. Moore is attacking hitters and he is getting them out — consistently, emphatically, in high-leverage spots. Four saves in April means four times he was trusted to close out a game and delivered.

    Bullpen arms this reliable at High-A tend to move quickly through the system. Moore is a name to know before he’s in Tacoma.

    The Wider Picture: Farmelo, Jimenez, Washington Jr.

    The AquaSox roster extends well beyond the award winners. Tuesday night’s game gave a snapshot of the depth:

    Jonny Farmelo (Mariners No. 6 prospect) led off the third inning with a double that started the six-run explosion. He is a left-handed hitter with plus raw power and the kind of athleticism that scouts come to Funko Field specifically to see.

    Carlos Jimenez (Mariners No. 21 prospect) delivered a clutch two-run single with two outs in that same third inning, the kind of RBI situational hit that does not show up in a prospect profile but does show up in a player’s development. Jimenez has been building his RBI count steadily all spring.

    Curtis Washington Jr. launched his fourth home run of the season on Tuesday night — a three-run shot to right-center that was the decisive blow in the 8-6 win. His fourth homer is already a new single-season career high. Washington Jr. is not ranked among the Mariners’ top prospects on most lists, but he is producing like someone who wants to change that.

    Why This Matters for Everett Fans

    The AquaSox experience is more fun when you understand what you are watching. These are not just box scores — they are snapshots of the players who will wear Mariners uniforms in Seattle in two or three years. Celesten, Stevenson, Moore, Farmelo: these names will be familiar to Mariners fans by 2027 or 2028. Right now, they are playing at Funko Field in Everett, and tickets are affordable.

    Come watch them before they are too expensive to see.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Q: Who won the Mariners Minor League Hitter of the Month for April 2026?
    A: Luke Stevenson, catcher for the Everett AquaSox, won the award with a .321 average, 20 walks, .500 OBP, and .982 OPS in April.

    Q: Who won the Mariners Minor League Bullpen Award for April 2026?
    A: Brock Moore, a right-handed reliever for the AquaSox, won the award after posting 20 strikeouts, 1 walk, 4 saves, and a 0.48 WHIP across 8.1 innings in April.

    Q: Has Felnin Celesten won NWL Player of the Week twice in 2026?
    A: Yes. Celesten earned NWL Player of the Week honors for two consecutive weeks in late April and early May 2026, batting .471 in his first award week and .434 in his second.

    Q: What are the top Mariners prospects on the 2026 AquaSox?
    A: Key Mariners organizational prospects on the 2026 AquaSox include Jonny Farmelo (No. 6), Luke Stevenson (No. 8), Carlos Jimenez (No. 21), and Felnin Celesten, among others.

    Q: Where can I watch AquaSox games in Everett?
    A: The AquaSox play their home games at Funko Field (Everett Memorial Stadium), 3802 Broadway, Everett, WA. The current six-game homestand against Hillsboro runs through Sunday, May 10. Tickets available at aquasox.com.

  • Your Complete Fan Guide to Silvertips vs. Raiders WHL Final: Game 1 Is Friday at Angel of the Winds

    Your Complete Fan Guide to Silvertips vs. Raiders WHL Final: Game 1 Is Friday at Angel of the Winds

    Q: When is the Silvertips WHL Championship Final Game 1?
    A: Game 1 is Friday, May 8, at Angel of the Winds Arena in Everett, with Game 2 on Saturday, May 9. The Silvertips face the Prince Albert Raiders in what is the first-ever WHL Championship matchup between these two franchises.

    Game 1 Is Friday Night at Angel of the Winds

    Two nights from now, Angel of the Winds Arena will be rocking for the biggest game in Everett hockey since the 2018 WHL Championship. The Silvertips are headed to the WHL Final — 12-1 in the 2026 playoffs, two sweeps and a statement 4-1 series in their rear pocket — and Friday night, May 8, Game 1 tips off against the Prince Albert Raiders. Game 2 follows Saturday, May 9, before the series shifts to Saskatchewan.

    This is the moment Everett hockey fans have been watching build all year. Here is everything you need to know heading into the weekend.

    Series Schedule

    The 2026 WHL Championship Series presented by Nutrien follows this format: Game 1 (May 8, Everett), Game 2 (May 9, Everett), Game 3 (May 12, Prince Albert), Game 4 (May 13, Prince Albert), Game 5 if needed (May 15, Prince Albert), Game 6 if needed (May 17, Everett), Game 7 if needed (May 18, Prince Albert). That means Everett gets Games 1, 2, and potentially 6 at home — the opener and a possible series-clincher.

    Tickets for Games 1 and 2 are available at silvertips.com and Ticketmaster. Do not sleep on these — a 12-1 team playing for the Ed Chynoweth Cup is a once-or-twice-a-generation event in this building.

    Why the Silvertips Are a Legitimate Cup Contender

    The 2025-26 Silvertips had one of the best regular seasons in franchise history — a 57-8-2-1 record, first in the WHL Western Conference by a country mile. In the playoffs, they have been dominant: a first-round sweep, a 4-1 series win over the Kelowna Rockets, and a second-round sweep of the Penticton Vees in the Western Conference Final. They have outscored opponents 51-12 across all playoff games entering the Final, and goaltender Anders Miller has been nothing short of spectacular.

    Miller’s playoff numbers are historic. He is posting a .948 save percentage — the best mark in WHL playoff history for a goaltender with nine or more games played. The defense in front of him, anchored by 16-year-old Landon DuPont, has been the backbone of everything that works about this team.

    This is the Silvertips’ third appearance in the WHL Championship Final, following runs in 2004 and 2018. They have never won the Ed Chynoweth Cup. That is the storyline hanging over everything this week.

    5 Silvertips to Watch

    Landon DuPont, D — The first defenseman in WHL history to receive Exceptional Status, DuPont has 17 points (4G-13A) in 13 playoff games. He is 16 years old. He is the best player on the ice most nights and one of the best defensive prospects in North America. His skating and poise under pressure have defined the Silvertips’ playoff run.

    Matias Vanhanen, F — The Silvertips’ playoff scoring leader with 19 points (10G-9A). He provides the offensive engine that DuPont enables from the back end. When Vanhanen is scoring, Everett wins games.

    Carter Bear, F — A Detroit Red Wings prospect with 16 points in 13 games, Bear plays a two-way game that makes Everett’s depth dangerous. You cannot key on DuPont and Vanhanen without Bear making you pay.

    Anders Miller, G — .948 playoff save percentage. WHL record for a goaltender with 9+ GP. The rest of the team could play well enough to win most series; with Miller, they can win them convincingly. He has been the backbone of the most dominant playoff run in recent Silvertips history.

    Landon DuPont (again) — Yes, he deserves two entries. He has 13 assists in 13 playoff games. He is a generational talent playing on the biggest stage junior hockey has. Watch him every shift.

    Know Your Opponent: The Prince Albert Raiders

    The Prince Albert Raiders won the WHL Championship in 1985 and 2019, and they are coming to Everett having just knocked off the Medicine Hat Tigers in the Eastern Conference Final. This is a dangerous, well-coached team with the best individual scorer remaining in the 2026 WHL Playoffs.

    Daxon Rudolph, D — Raiders’ 18-year-old defenseman who leads the ENTIRE WHL Playoffs in scoring with 23 points (9G-14A) in 15 games. He is ranked fifth among North American skaters in NHL Central Scouting’s final 2026 NHL Draft rankings. Rudolph is a 6-foot-2, 202-pound blueliner who reads the ice like a veteran. This is the matchup within the matchup: Rudolph versus DuPont, two generational defensive prospects competing for a championship.

    Owen Corkish — Corkish had a hat trick in the Raiders’ ECF Game 5 win over Medicine Hat. He can score in bunches and will be looking to carry that momentum into the Final.

    The Raiders are appearing in their third WHL Championship, and they have won both previous trips. Everett needs to be aware of that institutional experience and match it with the confidence of a team that has been the best in the WHL all year.

    History: Everett Has Never Won This Trophy

    The Silvertips first reached the WHL Final in 2004, losing to the Kelowna Rockets. In 2018, they returned, losing to the Swift Current Broncos. Both times: close, but not there.

    This is year three of what fans hope is different. The roster is better, the goaltending may be the best in Silvertips playoff history, and a 16-year-old defenseman is leading the way. It is not a stretch to say this is the best team the franchise has fielded heading into a WHL Final. The Cup belongs in Everett. Friday night, the Silvertips get their first shot at proving it.

    How to Watch and Attend

    Tickets: Available at silvertips.com and Ticketmaster for Games 1 (May 8) and 2 (May 9) at Angel of the Winds Arena, Everett. Buy before they’re gone — this is a playoff Final at a 10,000-seat arena and demand will be high.

    Broadcast: Check silvertips.com and CHL.ca for streaming and TV options. The WHL Championship is typically available on TSN for Canadian viewers. U.S. streaming options will be listed on the Silvertips’ official channels.

    Angel of the Winds Arena: 2000 Hewitt Ave, Everett, WA 98201. Doors open approximately 90 minutes before puck drop. The building will be electric.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Q: When is Silvertips WHL Final Game 1?
    A: Game 1 is Friday, May 8, at Angel of the Winds Arena in Everett. Game 2 follows Saturday, May 9.

    Q: Who are the Everett Silvertips playing in the 2026 WHL Championship Final?
    A: The Silvertips are facing the Prince Albert Raiders. It is the first time these two franchises have met in the WHL Final.

    Q: What is the Silvertips’ 2026 playoff record?
    A: 12-1 entering the WHL Final, with two series sweeps and a 4-1 series win over Kelowna.

    Q: Who leads the Silvertips in playoff scoring?
    A: Matias Vanhanen leads with 19 points (10G-9A). Landon DuPont has 17 points (4G-13A) from the blue line. Carter Bear has 16 points.

    Q: Has Everett ever won the WHL Championship?
    A: No. The Silvertips reached the WHL Final in 2004 and 2018 but did not win either time. The 2026 Final is their third chance.

    Q: Where can I buy tickets for the Silvertips WHL Final?
    A: Tickets for Games 1 and 2 are available at silvertips.com and Ticketmaster.

  • Curtis Washington Jr. Goes Off: AquaSox Beat Hillsboro 8-6 in Series Opener

    Curtis Washington Jr. Goes Off: AquaSox Beat Hillsboro 8-6 in Series Opener

    Q: What happened when the AquaSox opened the Hillsboro series on May 5, 2026?
    A: Curtis Washington Jr. hit a three-run home run — his fourth of the season — as part of a six-run third inning, and Everett beat the Hillsboro Hops 8-6 at Funko Field. Wyatt Lunsford-Shenkman earned the win and Casey Hintz notched his second save of the year.

    Curtis Washington Jr. Lights Up Funko Field

    The Everett AquaSox are home, and Tuesday night at Funko Field felt like a reminder of exactly why this roster is worth watching. Curtis Washington Jr. blasted a three-run home run to right-center in the third inning — his fourth of 2026, a new career single-season high — as the Frogs took Game 1 of the Hillsboro Hops series 8-6 in front of 754 fans on a spring night in Everett.

    This was a game with some sloppiness, a five-run Hops comeback in the fifth that made it interesting, and ultimately a bullpen that held the door shut. The kind of 8-6 win that leaves you feeling good about the roster depth even while knowing there’s work to be done.

    How It Unfolded: The Six-Run Third

    The AquaSox took a 1-0 lead in the bottom of the first when Luke Stevenson (Seattle Mariners’ No. 8 prospect) singled home Carter Dorighi, who had reached on a Hillsboro fielding error and advanced on a wild pitch. Clean, efficient, the kind of early RBI Stevenson has been delivering all month — no coincidence he just earned the Mariners’ Minor League Hitter of April award.

    Hillsboro answered in the top of the third. Adrian Rodriguez walked, Trent Youngblood and Yassel Soler singled to load the bases, Brady Counsell hit a sacrifice fly, and Yerald Nin doubled into the left-center gap to put the Hops up 2-1. It looked for a moment like Hillsboro starter David Hagaman — Arizona’s No. 8 prospect — might settle in.

    He didn’t. The bottom of the third became a six-run avalanche. Mariners No. 6 prospect Jonny Farmelo led off with a double. Josh Caron walked. Luis Suisbel walked to load the bases with two outs. Then Carlos Jimenez (Mariners No. 21 prospect) lined a two-run single to right, scoring Farmelo and Caron to tie it at 3. Austin St. Laurent followed with an RBI single to make it 4-2. And then Washington Jr. stepped in and sent one to right-center — a three-run shot that made it 7-2 and sent the small but enthusiastic crowd home happy before the fifth inning even arrived.

    The Hops Made It Interesting

    Credit the Hillsboro Hops: they didn’t fold. The top of the fifth saw a four-run explosion that cut the lead to 7-6. Slade Caldwell (Arizona’s No. 3 prospect) walked, Counsell knocked an RBI double, Nin added an RBI single, Avery Owusu-Asiedu hit an RBI double, and Modeifi Marte brought home one more with a single to right. Suddenly it was a game again.

    Everett answered in the sixth. Washington Jr. reached on a hit-by-pitch, stole second, advanced to third on a passed ball, and Dorighi drove him home with a sacrifice fly to left. 8-6 AquaSox.

    Pitching: Lunsford-Shenkman and Hintz Slam the Door

    Taylor Dollard started and went four innings. Armbruester tossed one frame. Then Wyatt Lunsford-Shenkman came on and was filthy — two scoreless innings, picking up his second win of the season. Casey Hintz closed it out with two more scoreless innings for his second save. The Hops had 12 hits on the night but couldn’t string them together enough in the late innings to tie it up.

    Hillsboro’s pitching staff — Hagaman (2.2), Russell (0.1), Aracena (2.0), Brown (3.0) — eventually settled down, but the damage was already done by the bottom of the third.

    Prospect Watch: Names to Know

    Three Mariners prospects showed out in the box score tonight. Jonny Farmelo (M’s No. 6) set the third inning in motion with his leadoff double. Carlos Jimenez (M’s No. 21) delivered the clutch two-run single with two outs. And Curtis Washington Jr. provided the headline play with his three-run shot. Add in Luke Stevenson (No. 8) providing the first-inning RBI, and you’ve got a prospect showcase tucked inside an 8-6 box score.

    This comes on the heels of Stevenson winning the Mariners Minor League Hitter of the Month award for April (.321 BA, .500 OBP, .982 OPS, 20 walks) and Brock Moore winning the bullpen award (8.1 IP, 20 K, 1 BB, 4 SV in April). The talent pipeline feeding through Everett right now is genuinely impressive.

    Tonight: Bryce Miller on the Mound

    Wednesday night is must-see baseball at Funko Field. Seattle Mariners pitcher Bryce Miller is making his second AquaSox rehab start of 2026 at 7:05 PM, continuing his recovery from the oblique inflammation that sidelined him before the season. His April 24 AquaSox outing (3 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 6 K, 47 pitches) was excellent. Tonight, he faces the Hops in what may be his final tune-up before rejoining the Seattle rotation.

    What’s Coming This Week

    The six-game Hillsboro homestand runs through Sunday, May 10, with something every night worth showing up for. Coors Light Throwback Thursday is Thursday, Star Wars Night on Saturday, Sunday Fun Day closes the week, and the AquaSox Mother’s Day Picnic rounds it out. Tickets are available at aquasox.com. All games at Funko Field, 7:05 PM first pitch (Sunday at 1:05 PM).

    The Frogs are building something interesting in Everett this spring. Come watch it in person.

    Box Score

    Hillsboro Hops: 0-0-2-0-4-0-0-0-0 = 6 R, 12 H, 1 E
    Everett AquaSox: 1-0-6-0-0-1-0-0-X = 8 R, 9 H, 1 E

    Win: Lunsford-Shenkman (2-0) | Loss: Hagaman (0-1) | Save: Hintz (2)
    Everett pitching: Dollard 4.0 IP, Armbruester 1.0 IP, Lunsford-Shenkman 2.0 IP, Hintz 2.0 IP
    Time: 2:49 | Attendance: 754

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Q: Who won the AquaSox game on May 5, 2026?
    A: The Everett AquaSox beat the Hillsboro Hops 8-6 in the series opener at Funko Field.

    Q: Who hit the home run for the AquaSox on May 5?
    A: Curtis Washington Jr. hit a three-run home run to right-center in the third inning — his fourth of the 2026 season and a new career single-season high.

    Q: Who got the win for Everett on May 5?
    A: Wyatt Lunsford-Shenkman earned the win (now 2-0) with two scoreless innings; Casey Hintz earned his second save with two more scoreless frames.

    Q: Is Bryce Miller pitching for the AquaSox this week?
    A: Yes — Mariners right-hander Bryce Miller is scheduled to make a rehab start Wednesday, May 6, at 7:05 PM at Funko Field against the Hillsboro Hops.

    Q: What promotions does the AquaSox homestand have?
    A: Coors Light Throwback Thursday (May 7), Star Wars Night (May 9), Sunday Fun Day, and the Mother’s Day Picnic (May 10). All games at Funko Field — 7:05 PM weeknights/Saturday, 1:05 PM Sunday.

    Q: Who are the Mariners prospects on the AquaSox in 2026?
    A: Standout prospects on the 2026 AquaSox include Jonny Farmelo (No. 6), Luke Stevenson (No. 8), Carlos Jimenez (No. 21), Felnin Celesten, Brandon Eike, and Curtis Washington Jr., among others.