Nationals' Pitcher DJ Herz Placed on 60-Day Injured List

Herz recovering from Tommy John surgery, expected to return around All-Star break

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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The Washington Nationals have placed pitcher DJ Herz on the 60-day injured list as he recovers from Tommy John surgery he underwent last April. The move clears a roster spot for the team to sign free agent pitcher Miles Mikolas to a one-year deal.

Why it matters

Herz was a promising young prospect in the Nationals' farm system, and his extended absence due to the Tommy John procedure is a setback for the team as they look to rebuild their pitching staff. His return around the All-Star break could provide a boost if he is able to regain his form.

The details

Herz underwent Tommy John surgery in April 2025 and is still working his way back to full strength. The Nationals have placed him on the 60-day injured list, which means he will not be eligible to return until at least early June. This roster move opens up a spot for the team to sign free agent pitcher Miles Mikolas to a one-year contract.

  • Herz underwent Tommy John surgery in April 2025.
  • The Nationals placed Herz on the 60-day injured list on February 11, 2026.

The players

DJ Herz

A promising young pitcher in the Washington Nationals' farm system who is recovering from Tommy John surgery.

Miles Mikolas

A free agent pitcher who the Nationals have signed to a one-year contract, taking the roster spot opened up by Herz's placement on the injured list.

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What’s next

Herz will continue his rehabilitation program with the goal of returning to the Nationals' roster around the All-Star break in July.

The takeaway

Herz's extended absence due to Tommy John surgery is a setback for the Nationals, but his eventual return could provide a boost to their pitching staff if he is able to regain his form from before the injury.