Nationals recall RHP Jordan Zimmermann to make first big league start since Tommy John surgery

RHP Jordan Zimmermann recalled by Nationals

WASHINGTON — Jordan Zimmermann has been recalled by the Washington Nationals to make his first major league start of the season against the St. Louis Cardinals.

Zimmermann returned to the big leagues Thursday, just more than a year after having elbow ligament replacement surgery. He last pitched for the Nationals on July 18, 2009, and had the operation on Aug. 19.

A premier prospect before he got hurt, Zimmermann pitched in 10 minor league games this season, going 1-2 with a 1.59 ERA and 31 strikeouts in 39 2-3 innings. The right-hander was recalled from Triple-A Syracuse, where he went 1-0 with a 0.53 ERA in four starts this year.