Ben Hess: Yankees’ High-Risk, High-Reward Prospect
Yankees fans have heard the names of some top prospects - Spencer Jones, Roderick Arias, and the breakout star of the ‘24 spring training, George Lombard Jr. But there’s one Yankee prospect I’m particularly excited to follow this year in the minors: Ben Hess, the Yankees’ #4 prospect according to MLB Pipeline.
Standing at 6’5” and 255 lbs, the 22-year-old right-hander, who was the Yankees’ #1 pick in the 2024 draft, has drawn comparisons to former Yankee Lance Lynn. Hess boasts an electric fastball that tops out at 99 mph, consistently sitting in the 92-96 mph range. Paired with his curveball, graded a 60 Above Average by scouts, it’s clear why there’s so much hype surrounding his potential.
However, there are areas of concern. Injuries have plagued much of his collegiate career at Alabama, keeping him sidelined for significant stretches. Additionally, his control remains a point of contention, graded a 45 by scouts - teetering on the brink between below average and ineffective at the major league level. This was evident last spring when his walk rate jumped from 5% in 2023 to 11% while at Alabama.
On the plus side, the Yankees’ pitching development program, under Matt Blake, has earned a reputation for maximizing pitcher potential. Only time will tell how Hess adapts and progresses in his professional debut, but the raw talent is certainly there. Hess should start at the Rookie level this year and progress from there.
The 20-80 Scouting Scale:
20-30 (Poor): Below average, likely not a professional-level skill.
40 (Below Average): A fringe skill, not likely to be effective at the major league level.
50 (Average): An average MLB skill, sufficient to compete at the major league level.
60 (Above Average): Better than most MLB players, often considered a plus tool.
70 (Plus-Plus): Significantly better than most, a standout skill even among MLB stars.
80 (Elite): Best possible rating, reserved for the absolute best in the game. Rarely given.