Thunderhawks Rally Behind Dick's Masterful Outing
Grand Rapids senior right-hander Joe Dick knew his team needed a win against Cloquet after dropping two games over the weekend to Class AA opponents. The Thunderhawks leaned on Dick's experience and poise to turn the tide.
Dick tossed seven solid innings, allowing just six hits and two runs while striking out four. He kept the pressure on by getting Bo Harriman to swing at strike three and inducing Jackson Peterson to pop out to first base, a sequence that helped seal the 5-2 victory.
Coach Bill Kinnunen praised Dick for getting the team out of a tight spot, noting that timely hits and a disciplined defense made the difference. The win marks a turning point for a squad that has been up and down all season.
Cloquet coach Tyler Olin acknowledged Dick's ability to make the necessary pitches, but pointed out that Grand Rapids capitalized on timely hits against a deep lineup. Olin also praised his own team's pitching depth, saying they had enough arms to limit chances.
With just two regular‑season games remaining before the Section 7AAA tournament begins next week, Dick said the current stretch is essentially practice for the postseason. The Thunderhawks will next travel to Hermantown before hosting Hibbing, while Cloquet prepares to host Esko and finish against Duluth Denfeld.