Here is the latest Washington, Oregon and Alaska sports news from The Associated Press

 

TUKWILA, Wash. (AP) — With the Seattle Sounders one win away from hoisting the MLS title, coach Brian Schmetzer has become very popular with fans. Schmetzer has been key to turning the franchise around from a dismal start to the season. He jokes that he’s been deluged by autograph hunters, to the point that someone even asked him to sign a shoe.

NEW YORK (AP) — New York City’s David Villa has been named MLS MVP for this season after he scored 23 goals for the squad. The Red Bulls’ Bradley Wright-Phillips finished second in the balloting by players, club officials and the media.

OXON HILL, Md. (AP) — The Seattle Mariners so far have yet to make a splash at baseball’s winter meetings, even as the Boston Red Sox traded to get ace pitcher Chris Sale yesterday. The Mariners did make one key deal last month to bring in Jean Segura and Mitch Haniger.

NEW YORK (AP) — Former Washington State and Detroit Lions offensive lineman Mike Utley is going into college football’s Hall of Fame. Utley tries to stay connected to the game as much as he can, including attending Cougars games. He was left paralyzed by a football injury 25 years ago.

 

Copyright 2016 The Associated Press.