Early Promise
DJ Herz showed potential with Washington Nationals last season, recording a 4.16 ERA with a strong strikeout rate of 10.8 K/9 over 19 starts. His rookie campaign, though not flawless, revealed a knack for striking out batters and hinted at a promising future as a left-handed pitcher.
Difficult Early Outings
This spring, however, Herz has encountered significantly more challenges. In his first start during an early game against the Houston Astros, he allowed two earned runs and three hits while surrendering a home run and issuing two walks. His subsequent appearance from the bullpen saw him initially control the inning by inducing flyouts, but then he faltered by issuing a nine-pitch walk and later loaded the bases with consecutive four-pitch walks, resulting in a hit and two additional runs.
Pitching Challenges
Herz’s struggles continued in his second start against the St. Louis Cardinals. Fielding difficulties compounded his pitching woes as he recorded another walk alongside four hits in just 3.1 innings, accumulating four runs, two of which were earned. Through 6.2 innings pitched this spring, his performance has led to an 8.10 ERA with seven walks, a clear indication that his command and consistency have suffered compared to his previous season, where his control was better with 3.7 BB/9.
Season Outlook
The current difficulties underscore a need for refinement in control and consistency. The Nationals’ decision to bring in additional pitching talent this offseason has raised the expectations and competition for roster spots. For Herz to secure a place in the rotation, significant improvements in his minor league work will be essential to regain the strikeout prowess and command he once displayed.
