DALLAS – Portland Pilots pitchers continue to add to their list of national honors, with Alex Via being named to the 2026 NCBWA Stopper of the Year Midseason List. He's the second Pilot in the last three seasons to earn such an honor, with Tanner Douglass making the list in 2024.
 
The Stopper of the Year midseason list recognizes the best relievers and closers in the country, highlighting those that have been stellar for their teams. The finalists for the award will be announced on June 3 while the award will officially be announced on June 12 at the 2026 College World Series.
 
Via has been stellar as the main closer for the Pilots this year, and he's officially one of just five freshmen to make the midseason list. He's made a team-high 17 appearances in relief, posting a 3.04 ERA and eight saves in those appearances. His saves total ranks first in the WCC, first among all freshmen and 13^th nationally. He already has the most saves ever by a Pilot true freshman and the most by any Pilot in two years.
 
The Pilots are sitting at 22-16 overall and 8-7 in WCC play. They will take on the Santa Clara Broncos on the road for a three-game series starting on Friday, Apr. 24. That game is set to start at 6 p.m. on ESPN+. Check PortlandPilots.com for live stats and video options. 

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