DJ Herz is getting a second opinion on his sprained elbow ligament.

Fantasy Impact

Herz is consulting with Dr. Keith Meister to determine whether he will need Tommy John surgery or if rest and rehab may allow for a return. Should surgery be necessary, he would miss the 2025 season and return sometime in 2026.

The Nationals transferred DJ Herz to the 60-day injured list.

Fantasy Impact

Herz is without a clear timetable to return after being diagnosed with a UCL sprain in his left elbow.

DJ Herz has been diagnosed with a left elbow UCL sprain, per team updates, shifting from a spring “dead arm” concern to a major injury.

Fantasy Impact

Herz’s spring velocity dip, initially called “dead arm,” reveals a UCL sprain Monday, potentially needing surgery and sidelining him for months—or longer—past his 15-day IL stint with the Nationals. Fantasy managers in deep dynasty leagues should stash him, banking on a 2025 return to Washington’s rotation if rehab succeeds, though surgery looms large.

The Nationals placed DJ Herz on the 15-day IL Monday for an undisclosed injury, per team updates, delaying his Triple-A Rochester start.

Fantasy Impact

Herz’s Friday option to Triple-A Rochester shifts to a Monday IL stint, possibly tied to spring’s dead arm, after missing the Nationals’ Opening Day rotation. Fantasy managers in deep dynasty leagues should stash him, banking on his left arm for a 2025 call-up to Washington’s rotation once details and a return timeline emerge soon.

The Washington Nationals have optioned DJ Herz to Triple-A Rochester.

Fantasy Impact

Herz struggled this spring after tweaking his mechanics, posting a 6.52 ERA and 1.96 WHIP over 9.2 innings. He will focus on refining his mechanics and improving control while starting the season in Triple-A.