Sometimes you're the deer, sometimes you're the grill of the speeding car. The Bucks played the role of the former in Wednesday night's ninth inning. If one play could summarize tonight's action, it would be the hidden ball trick that the Stingers pulled off to end the fifth inning. 

Waterloo was outplayed throughout the course of the game, but the Bucks managed to hold down the fort and stay in the game until the final inning. Heading into the last frame, the Bucks trailed 3-2. A combination of bad pitching and defensive miscues soon put the nail in the coffin, though, letting up four runs and dashing any hope of a comeback. 

Dustin Carlson started off the ninth inning, but was pulled after two outs. He allowed four runs on four hits and two walks. The inning could have ended with limited damage, but a routine fly ball got past right fielder Jon McAllister and two runs crossed. 

Starter Dane Dunning was credited with the loss in his Bucks debut. He allowed nine hits, but managed to hold the Stingers in check for only three runs. Again, though, it was the offense coming up short for the Bucks. 

Aaron Towns of Willmar earned the victory after allowing two runs (one earned) and striking out seven. Ben Gullo was lights out in relief, allowing just one hit over his three innings of work. 

Much like in Tuesday night's loss, the Bucks had opportunities to score runs. One of their better chances came in the second inning with two men on base. A line drive to left field resulted in a spectacular diving catch by Casey Hughston, and the inning was over. 

The Bucks travel to Mankato for a two game set against the Moondogs starting on Thursday night. They return home Saturday to begin a four game homestand.