Bullpen Collapses Fuel Multiple MLB Late-Inning Losses

Several Major League Baseball teams experienced bullpen struggles leading to late-inning losses in recent games. The Detroit Tigers lost to the Washington Nationals after surrendering six runs in the eighth inning, despite a rally earlier in the game, with right-handed reliever Tommy Kahnle notably struggling to contain the Nationals' offense. Similarly, the Cincinnati Reds bullpen faltered against the Boston Red Sox in a resumed rain-delayed game, allowing two game-winning runs in the bottom of the eighth inning, resulting in a 5-3 loss. The Reds had initially taken a lead on a two-run homer by Spencer Steer but could not hold it due to bullpen difficulties, including a key misplay by shortstop Elly De La Cruz. These bullpen issues contributed to losses for teams like the Reds and Tigers, reflecting ongoing challenges in late-game relief pitching. Meanwhile, the Yankees continued to suffer setbacks, including a four-game sweep by the Toronto Blue Jays, leaving them in second place for the first time since April.