Nationals Stumble in Series Finale

**Corey** (0:00)
On June 17th, the Nationals dropped their series finale against the Royals yesterday, a tough loss after a strong run of play. They had won eight of their last 11 games, averaging almost seven runs a game, but yesterday, the offense stalled. They didn't score until the sixth inning, and the pitching gave up four home runs in the first three innings. This loss snaps a four-game winning streak and comes at a bad time, as they're heading into a tough stretch against playoff contenders.
Manager Blake Butera emphasized that every game counts, and the team felt they didn't finish their business by not closing out the series with a win. Pitcher Zack Littell has seen a dip in his recent performance. After a solid stretch where he went six and zero, he's given up nine runs and 11 hits in his last two starts. The manager pointed to Littell struggling to put hitters away when ahead in the count, and leaving pitches over the middle of the plate. The top of the Nationals lineup also had a quiet day, going a combined zero for 10
They also struggled to draw walks against the Royal starter, who usually gives up a lot of them. One player noted that the opposing pitcher was able to make good pitches when he needed them to get back into counts. Despite the setback, the team is looking ahead. They have an off day before heading to Tampa Bay to face the Rays, who have one of the best records in the American League and are strong at home.
The Nationals have a good road record and players feel they can carry the momentum from their earlier wins in the series into Tampa. That's your update from Washington Nationals News Today powered by AI. I'm Corey with the story.