Jun 24, 2010 8:03 AM EST

Nationals pitcher Stephen Strasburg struck out nine batters on Wednesday, but suffered his first loss against the Royals.

Kansas City defeated Washington 1-0 at Nationals Park.

Strasburg lasted six innings, allowing the one run without issuing a walk.

"If we don't score runs," Washington third baseman Ryan Zimmerman said, "it doesn't matter who's pitching."

Strasburg is now 2-1 with a 1.78 ERA in four starts.

Via ESPN