After yesterday’s disappointing loss, the Waterloo Bucks (16-13) arrived in Eau Claire ready to rise to the occasion. The Bucks began their three-game series against the division-leading Eau Claire Express (17-11) with a well-fought 7-5 victory.

The Bucks followed-up yesterday’s poor offensive showing by putting up seven runs tonight. DH Jake Astor and 3B Brandon Williams both contributed two of Waterloo’s seven hits as well as one run apiece. 2B Tyler Robbins (pictured) also hit his first homerun of the year in the top of the third inning, recording two RBIs for the Bucks.

Bucks’ ace Jared Wagoner (4-2) got back on track tonight, completing seven innings on his way to the win. Wagoner struck out four and allowed only two runs during his time on the hill before passing the baton to reserve pitchers Steven Richardson (0-2) and Matt Grabowski. Eau Claire’s starting pitcher Brad Goldberg (1-3) was handed the loss after allowing five runs in just six innings on the mound.

To view the game’s box score, please visit http://northwoods.bbstats.pointstreak.com/boxscore.html?gameid=4553.

The Buck and Express will square off in Eau Claire tomorrow night for round two of the series at 6:35 P.M. With the first half of the season coming to a close soon, the Bucks will look to seize the moment and rip another win away from the Express as they inch closer to the division lead.