Kyle Gustavson had three hits and three RBIs and Justin Blackmer added three RBIs to lead the Rails to the six-inning home win.

Winning pitcher Chad Ward threw a four-hitter with seven strikeouts for the Rails (4-2).

North Branch dropped to 3-6.

(Duluth News Tribune, April 25, 1998)

North Branch vs. Proctor

One day later (Fri.), the Rails headed back to Egerdahl Field for a non-conference clash with North Branch. Though having no bearing in the Lake Superior Conference race, this game could very well play a big role in the Rails' post-season playoff positioning. North Branch, also in Section 7AA, will be one of the teams shooting for the title spot of the southern half of the section playoffs.

The Rails came out and jumped all over their southern opponent, as the bats of Kyle Gustavson and Justin Blackmer seemed unstoppable. Gustavson logged three hits and drove in as many runs, while Blackmer added a trio of RBI's (runs batted in). Together the duo accounted for half of Proctor's 12 runs that crossed home plate in that game.

Meanwhile, a stingy Rails defense, led by winning pitcher Chad Ward allowed only two Vikings runs to cross the plate.

Ward turned in one of his top performances of the season, as the senior hurler allowed only four hits while he mowed down seven North Branch batters by striking them out...

(Proctor Journal, April 30, 1998)