Scott and Sandra were over the moon about Mirai last year. I'm sure it wasn't deliberate that they didn't mention her.
I think it's just a "who delivered this season (Alissa)" vs. who is defending their national title (Rachael). Kind of standard stuff.
As for Agnes, I also agree that she has champion potential. I really hope she gets more consistent with her FS. I love her springy jumps and I think she has a vibrancy about her that is appealing.