DJ Herz’s Comeback Story | Washington Nationals News

0:00It's September 6th. This is Washington Nationals News today, AI-powered updates on your team. I'm Cory with the Story. Yo, let's talk about DJ Hears. This dude was once a big deal for the Nats, but after Tommy John's surgery in April of 2025, he kind of dropped off the radar. He missed that whole season and most of 2026. Then, just when he was getting back on the field this summer, a flexor strain through another wrench in his recovery. But here's the comeback story. The 25-year-old lefty has been grinding his way back. He started in single A, moved up to double A, and now he's at triple A Rochester. In his first eight rehab games this season, he's put up a 3.71 ERA with 21 strikeouts in 17 innings. That's a solid climb back. Remember back in 2024? Hers was in the big leagues, making 19 starts. He had a 4.16 ERA and racked up 106 strikeouts in 88 innings. Even with some rookie jitters, his ability to get swings and misses was undeniable, averaging

1:04almost 11Ks per 9. That's the kind of heat you can't easily find. His best outing was against the Marlins, where he went 6 scoreless innings, striking out 13 batters and not walking anyone. That was a rare feat. Only the second time since 1901, someone did that in their first three starts. It showed the raw talent when his basketball and changeup were locked in. Now, he still got work to do. Getting back from Tommy John is no joke, and the Nats got to be smart about his arm. He might not jump right back into the rotation, maybe a limited role first. But his stuff gives him a real shot to be a key player, whether he's starting or coming out of the bullpen.