WATERLOO, Iowa (May 20, 2012) — The Waterloo Bucks, a member of the Northwoods League, have announced the return of right-handed pitcher Jake Powers for the 2012 season.  Powers, a sophomore at Missouri State University, joins the Bucks for another season after playing in Waterloo last summer.

Last year, the 5’10", 170-pound hurler appeared in 13 games for the Bucks while starting 12 of them. Powers finished the season with a 3-4 record and a 3.79 ERA. He compiled 53 strikeouts to just 22 walks in 76 innings pitched.

This season for the Bears, Powers has appeared in 10 games, starting six. The righty is 2-1 with a 4.84 ERA. In 35.1 innings pitched, the Cottleville, Mo. native struck out 38 batters while giving a free pass to just eight.

Born August 17, 1990, Powers attended Francis Howell Central High School where he set school records for strikeouts (94), ERA (1.87) and Ks/7 innings (10.97) as a senior. Jake is the son of Robert and Debbie Powers.

The Bucks will open the 2012 season at home versus the Rochester Honkers on May 30 at 6:35 pm. The game will be aired live on 1650 The Fan. Season tickets and single-game tickets are currently on sale. Fans are encouraged to stay in touch with the Bucks in the off-season by utilizing their website at www.waterloobucks.com.