Nationals' Paul DeJong Undergoes Surgery After Fracturing Nose from Pitch Hit
April 28, 2025
Washington Nationals All-Star shortstop Paul DeJong will undergo surgery on his fractured nose today, as confirmed by manager Dave Martinez following the team's recent victory.
DeJong sustained the injury when he was hit in the face by a pitch from Mitch Keller of the Pittsburgh Pirates on April 15, leading to his placement on the injured list the next day.
The surgery is necessary to repair damage to DeJong's sinuses and orbital plate, and it is scheduled to take place shortly after the injury.
While Martinez did not specify a timeline for DeJong's return, he expressed hope for a positive outcome from the surgery.
Despite the severity of the injury, reports indicate that DeJong is expected to make a full recovery and return to the field later this season.
DeJong's absence is a notable loss for the Nationals, as he contributes both defensively with his reliable glove and offensively with his timely hitting.
The team's management remains optimistic about the depth of their roster and the potential of young prospects to step up in DeJong's absence.
Nationals fans are hopeful for an earlier return of DeJong, as his presence is considered crucial for the team's aspirations this season.
Prior to his injury, DeJong played in 16 games for the Nationals, recording a batting average of .204 with two RBIs.
DeJong, aged 31, signed a one-year contract worth $1 million with the Nationals in February 2025, following a season spent between the Chicago White Sox and Kansas City Royals.
The incident was described as terrifying, forcing DeJong to leave the field immediately and raising significant initial concerns about his health.
Summary based on 3 sources
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Sources

AP News • Apr 27, 2025
Nationals' DeJong to undergo surgery Monday for broken nose | AP News
ESPN • Apr 27, 2025
Nationals' Paul DeJong to undergo surgery on broken nose - ESPN
Al Bat Baseball • Apr 27, 2025
MLB: Nationals All-Star to Undergo Surgery After Being Hit by a Pitch in the Face