In a Class 3A semifinal on a crisp June evening, the Totino‑Grace Eagles pulled away from St. Thomas Academy with a 7‑2 victory, securing a spot in the state championship game.
A Fifth‑Inning Surge
The turning point came in the fifth inning when Brady Keane launched a ground‑rule double that sparked a five‑run burst, shifting momentum decisively in Totino‑Grace’s favor.
Veteran left‑hander Joe McGeary turned in a stellar six‑inning outing, limiting the Cadets to four hits while striking out four batters and keeping the opposition’s rally attempts at bay.
St. Thomas Academy’s Rough Night
St. Thomas Academy struggled with nine walks and three costly errors, a combination that compounded the pressure on their defense and allowed the Eagles to extend their lead.
Key contributions from Dimarco Cognetta, who fell just short of a three‑run homer that shattered a parking‑lot window, and run‑scoring singles by Colby Olson and Elliot Olsen, helped flesh out the scoreboard.
Looking Ahead to Monday’s Championship
The Eagles will now meet Mahtomedi, the defending state champions, on Monday at Target Field. Totino‑Grace previously edged Mahtomedi 2‑1 in last year’s title game, setting the stage for a rematch that promises fireworks.
With a balanced lineup and a pitching staff that has shown resilience all season, Totino‑Grace enters the championship as a confident contender, while the Cadets will look to regroup after a challenging semifinal.