Rays bullpen secures tight victory over Nationals in St. Petersburg

The Washington Nationals faced the Tampa Bay Rays in a matchup on June 21, 2026, falling short as their bullpen struggled. Tampa's pitchers threw three scoreless innings, contrasting with Orlando Ribalta and Gus Varland's struggles for the Nats. A crucial moment came in the seventh when Jonny DeLuca hit a two-run home run off Ribalta, providing the Rays with a decisive edge. The Nationals had moments offensively, highlighted by CJ Abrams hitting a home run, but overall their lineup could not maintain consistency. The loss concluded a challenging series for the Nats as they prepare for a significant four-game clash against the Phillies, a matchup seen as pivotal for their standing.

• 9:15 PMYahoo Sports — Washington Nationals drop a tight game to the Rays as the bullpen cost them