ST.LOUIS, MO - As the Nationals head into their final series before the All-Star Break, the club is dealing with a wave of injuries that have impacted both their lineup and pitching staff. With key players sidelined and several roster moves made in recent days, here’s the latest on the Nationals’ injury situation as of Wednesday, July 9, 2025.
Trevor Williams Faces Extended Absence After Elbow Injury
Trevor Williams has been diagnosed with a partial tear of his ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in his right elbow and will undergo surgery that is expected to sideline him until at least early next season, with the possibility of missing most or all of 2026. Williams is scheduled for an internal brace procedure, a less-invasive alternative to Tommy John surgery, which could allow for a return in about nine months. However, if more extensive damage is found during surgery, a full Tommy John procedure may be necessary, potentially extending his absence through 2026.
Williams, who was placed on the 15-day injured list on July 4 and transferred to the 60-day IL on July 8, struggled this season with a 3-10 record and a 6.21 ERA over 17 starts. He had previously signed a two-year, $14 million contract after a strong but injury-shortened 2024 campaign. The Nationals have filled his rotation spot with Shinnosuke Ogasawara, who is expected to make another start this weekend as the team evaluates its options.
Keibert Ruiz Back on Concussion IL
As we reported, Keibert Ruiz was placed back on the 7-day concussion injured list on July 8, raising concerns about his short- and long-term health. Ruiz had just returned from a previous concussion IL stint before taking another foul ball off his mask. The Nationals are prioritizing his recovery and will ensure he is fully healthy before any return.
Breaking Nationals News: Drew Millas is heading to St. Louis (via @andrewcgolden). Meanwhile, sources tell the Nats Report that Kiebert Ruiz is going to the IL after feeling unwell from a hit to the face mask during the Boston Red Sox series.
— #TheNatsReport 🇺🇸 ⚾ (#@TheNatsReport)
9:59 PM • Jul 7, 2025
Derek Law Receives Encouraging MRI Results
Derek Law underwent an MRI on his elbow, which showed no structural damage. Law has experienced recurring elbow discomfort during his rehab assignments but is expected to attempt another comeback soon, now reassured by the MRI results.
Other Notable Updates
Top pitching prospect Cade Cavalli has struggled in Triple-A recently, allowing seven runs in each of his last two starts, which has delayed any potential major league promotion.
The Nationals also recalled Ryan Loutos from Triple-A to help fill roster gaps caused by these injuries.
These injuries come as a significant blow to a Nationals team already dealing with rotation instability and a struggling pitching staff.