Nationals recall RHP Jackson Rutledge, option LHP DJ Herz to minors

The Washington Nationals have bolstered their bullpen for the final weekend of the season, recalling RHP Jackson Rutledge from Triple-A Rochester.

To make room on the roster, the Nats optioned LHP DJ Herz to the FCL Nationals roster.

Rutledge, who ranks as the No. 27 prospect in the system, was 4-9 with a 6.40 ERA in 27 Triple-A starts, with 128 strikeouts in 122 1/3 innings. He also made two appearances (including one start) for the big club earlier this year, allowing three runs in 5 2/3 innings.

The 25-year-old had made his MLB debut last year, posting a 6.75 ERA in 20 innings over four starts.

Herz, who started Wednesday's game and was not scheduled to pitch again this season, was 4-9 with a 4.16 ERA in 19 MLB starts in his rookie season, striking out 106 in 88 2/3 innings. He was 3-3 with a 3.89 ERA in 10 starts at Rochester in his Triple-A time as well.

The Nationals begin a three-game set with the Phillies in DC Friday night, with Trevor Williams, MacKenzie Gore, and Jake Irvin the scheduled starters.