TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — Alabama pitcher Ben Hess was selected in the first round of the 2024 Major League Baseball First-Year Player Draft, going to the New York Yankees with the 26th overall pick. The draft began on Sunday, July 14, and will continue through Tuesday, July 16.
Hess, a junior, is now the fifth first-round draft pick in Crimson Tide history and the second-highest pick ever from the program, following Joe Vitiello, who was picked seventh overall.
Hess showcased his elite talent at Alabama, appearing in 33 games (30 starts) over three years. In the 2024 season, he made 15 starts, achieving a team-high five wins and 106 strikeouts, placing him fifth on Alabama’s single-season strikeout list. His 70 strikeouts in conference play ranked third among SEC pitchers.
With his draft selection, Hess joins the ranks of Alabama's first-round picks, including Joe Vitiello, Taylor Tankersly, Jeremy Brown, and Tommy Hunter. Notably, Hess is the highest-drafted pitcher in Crimson Tide history.
