Ben Hess, a right-handed pitcher ranked as the New York Yankees’ No. 6 prospect, delivered his first complete game in a rain-shortened contest for Double-A Somerset. Hess’s start had already been delayed due to weather, but he managed to retire five consecutive batters at the beginning of the game and maintained strong control throughout, throwing 70 pitches with 49 strikes.
He received support from shortstop George Lombard Jr., the Yankees’ top prospect and No. 24 overall on MLB’s list, who hit his ninth home run of the season during the same game. Lombard Jr. was selected by New York in the first round of the 2024 Draft.
Hess has now allowed three runs or fewer in 13 straight starts dating back to his time at High-A level. In his debut campaign across 21 starts, he has accumulated 133 strikeouts over 97 1/3 innings, ranking third among all Yankees Minor League pitchers.
The performance from both Hess and Lombard Jr. highlights ongoing development within the Yankees’ farm system as they continue to progress through Double-A competition.
