Vancouver Canadians fall to Hillsboro Hops

JEN FIELD

April 28, 2026 marked the beginning of the Vancouver Canadians series against the Hillsboro Hops. After splitting the series with the Tri-City Dust Devils the week before they looked to get back in the winning books. 

The Hops got on the board first with a run in the top of the second. But the Canadians' Arjun Nimmala hit a home run in the bottom of the third securing 2 runs. This home run would be the furthest hit since 2022. 

The Canadians scored another run in the bottom of the sixth due to a balk. However, the Hops fought back in the top of the seventh securing 2 runs after a home run. Tying the game 3-3 going into the final innings. 

The Hops secured another 2 runs in the top of the eighth to put the game 5-3. The Canadians looked to rally in the ninth, but were unable to succeed. 

The first game of the series went to the Hops. 

The Hops took both Wednesday and Thursdays games as well. Wednesday with a 7-0 victory and Thursday with a 4-2 win after going into extra innings. 

The Canadians fought back on Friday securing a 4-3 win after going into extra innings. As well as Saturday’s game where they rallied in the final innings for a 8-7 victory. 

Ahead of Sunday’s game Nimmala was promoted to Double-A and will be playing with the New Hampshire Fisher Cats.

Sunday May 3, marked the final match up of these two teams, where the Canadians looked to tie the series. It was also Star Wars day at the Nat, fans showed up ready to cheer on the Canadians and hoped the force would be on their side. 

The game started quickly with both teams scoring runs in the first inning. The Hops secured 2, while the Canadians secured 1. 

The Canadians tied the game in the bottom of the fifth. However, the Hops pulled ahead by a run in the top of the sixth. 

Both teams scored in the seventh keeping the game within one run. But similar to Tuesday’s game a late run scored in the top of the eighth would secure the Hops lead. 

Though the Canadians tried for a rally they were unsuccessful. The game ended 5-3 for the Hops. 

Despite losing the series 4-2, the Canadians played incredibly well defensively. Linking plays together and throwing players out as they attempted to steal bases. The shift and growth in game play was incredible to watch. 

The Vancouver Canadians are back at Nat Bailey Stadium on May 12, at 7 pm, where they take on the Everett Aquasox.