As Nats fans evaulate arms currently within the system who could contribute to their next competitive team, one intriguing name has largely faded from the conversation. DJ Herz has not pitched in the major leagues since 2024, but his successful rehabilitation should remind fans why he was once considered an important part of the Nats future.
Herz underwent Tommy John surgery in April 2025, costing him that entire season and most of 2026. His initial rehabilitation assignment this summer was interrupted by a flexor strain, adding another obstacle to an already lengthy recovery. Since restarting the process, however, the 25-year-old left-hander has steadily worked his way from Single-A Fredericksburg to Double-A Harrisburg and now Triple-A Rochester.
Across his first eight minor league rehabilitation appearances this season, Herz has posted a 3.71 ERA and recorded 21 strikeouts in 17 innings. He has not yet been fully stretched out, but reaching Triple-A represents a significant step forward. If he continues responding well physically, the Nationals could give him an opportunity to pitch in the major leagues before the season ends.
Herz’s last taste of the big leagues was in 2024, where he made 19 starts for the Nats, posting a 4.16 ERA and 106 strikeouts in 88 ⅔ innings. His inconsistency and occasional command problems were understandable for a 23-year-old rookie, but his ability to miss bats immediately stood out. Herz averaged nearly 11 strikeouts per nine innings, showing the kind of swing-and-miss ability that remains difficult to find among starting pitchers.
His best performance came against the Miami Marlins in just his third major league start. Herz struck out 13 batters, walked none, and allowed only one hit over six scoreless innings. He became only the second pitcher since 1901 to produce at least 13 strikeouts without issuing a walk within his first three career appearances. It was one of the most dominant starts by any Nationals pitcher in recent years and a glimpse of his potential when his fastball and changeup were working together.
Herz will still have plenty to prove. Returning from Tommy John surgery is rarely a smooth process, and the Nationals should prioritize his long-term health over squeezing a few extra innings out of him this season. Even if he returns, he may initially work in a limited role rather than immediately joining the rotation.
Still, Herz deserves to be included in Washington’s pitching plans. At his best, he has shown more strikeout upside than many of the organization’s other young starters. Whether his future is in the rotation or as a multi-inning weapon out of the bullpen, his stuff gives him a legitimate chance to become an important major league contributor.
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