Matt Krook struggles as Nationals drop critical late-game lead to Yankees

The Washington Nationals faced the New York Yankees on July 10, 2026, losing a close game 3-2. In the ninth inning, manager Blake Butera opted for reliever Matt Krook instead of the more reliable Clayton Beeter, leading to a home run by Jazz Chisholm that allowed the Yankees to take the lead. This decision sparked criticism of Butera's reliance on specific matchups rather than trusting his best pitchers. With the Nationals' bullpen already struggling this season, questions about their strategy and personnel choices have emerged. The Nationals will need to evaluate their approach as they continue to navigate their season amidst these challenges.

• 1:40 PMYahoo Sports — Blake Butera and the Washington Nationals are overly dogmatic when it comes to platoon matchups