Bells edge Pickles to win first WCL title since 2014

Bellingham, WASports

The Bellingham Bells clinched the West Coast League Championship with a 2-1 victory over the Portland Pickles on August 14, their first title since 2014. Nate Kirkpatrick's solo home run and an eighth-inning RBI by Noah Cassie were pivotal in securing the win. Pitcher Trevor Moore delivered an impressive five innings of no-hit baseball, supported by Caleb Cassie and Carter Herrera, who closed out the game. The Pickles managed to score one run in the ninth but could not complete the comeback, as Colt Peterson struck out the final batter. Coach Ed Knaggs praised his team's resilience through a challenging playoff run, which featured several games decided by a single run.

The Bells concluded their season with a commendable 37-22 record. General manager Stephanie Morrell confirmed that Knaggs will return for the 2026 season. The victory marks a significant achievement for the Bells, enhancing their standing in the league.

Related Articles

Lynden man arrested following sexual assault, robbery at Little Squalicum Park

A Lynden man, Joseph Drager, faces charges after a sexual assault and robbery at Little Squalicum Park in Bellingham on August 20. Armed with a knife, Drager assaulted the victim and stole her wallet, which was later recovered. He remains in custody at Whatcom County Jail without bail.

Northwest Sports Update Messi comes to Seattle, Seahawks unveil new unis, a blockbuster trade in the NFL and more

The Dallas Cowboys traded edge rusher Micah Parsons to the Green Bay Packers for defensive tackle Kenny Clark and two first-round picks. Parsons signed a four-year, $188 million contract, making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. The Seattle Sounders advance to the Leagues Cup Championship after defeating the LA Galaxy 2-0.

Bellinghams effort to expand city limits denied by city council

Bellingham City Council rejected a proposal to annex 146 acres of land northeast of the city, voting 5-1 with one abstention. Council member Hollie Huthman cited a $10 million budget shortfall as a primary concern, emphasizing the financial burden of the annexation, which was projected to cost over $200,000 annually.