Nationals Break Slump with Series Win Over Orioles

By the Editorial Team · Monday, June 29, 2026

The Washington Nationals ended their losing streak by winning a series against the Baltimore Orioles, aided by stronger bullpen showings and effective pitching changes, including PJ Poulin earning his third save of the season in a closer role. This bullpen improvement was vital for the Nationals to secure the series victory, though concerns arose as pitcher Mitchell Parker left Sunday's game early due to elbow tightness, with his status pending.

The Washington Nationals snapped a losing streak with a series victory over the Baltimore Orioles, thanks in part to improved bullpen performances and strategic pitching adjustments. The series concluded Sunday, with the Nationals securing a 6-4 win to take the series.

Richard Lovelady recorded the final out of the seventh inning, while reliever PJ Poulin was tasked with closing the game in the eighth. Normally serving as an opener in place of Jackson Littell, Poulin was deployed in the closer role for the fifth time this season. Despite walking Coby Mayo with one out, Poulin retired the minimum number of batters faced by inducing a double play from Leody Taveras, earning his third save of the year. Catcher Austin Butera praised Poulin’s poise and aggressiveness, noting his ability to remain composed and execute effectively in high-pressure situations.

The bullpen showed marked improvement compared to a recent series against the Philadelphia Phillies. On Friday, Brad Lord pitched 2⅔ innings, allowing one run, although the Nationals’ offense was held to one run in a 3-1 loss. Saturday’s 4-3 win featured a shaky eighth inning when both Poulin and Orlando Ribalta allowed runs in a blown save opportunity. However, Clayton Beeter and Justin Lawrence stabilized the late innings, blanking the Orioles in relief and preserving the narrow victory.

After Jackson Littell delivered a strong start on Sunday, the Nationals held a 6-2 lead entering the bullpen’s session. Mitchell Parker began briskly, retiring the first five Orioles on 19 pitches. However, Jackson Holliday diminished the lead with a two-run homer, followed shortly by a walk issued to Taylor Ward. Notably, Parker’s four-seam fastball velocity dropped significantly from 95.1 mph to 89.1 mph during Ward’s at-bat, prompting his removal from the game. Parker exited the mound with apparent elbow tightness, as confirmed by Butera. The Nationals have yet to announce a diagnosis or outline next steps regarding Parker’s health.

The Nationals’ management continues to experiment with bullpen roles as they search for a reliable ninth-inning option, with Poulin’s successful save conversion adding to the potential candidates. The improved relief performances were crucial in halting the team’s slide and securing the key series win in Baltimore.

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