ST. PETERSBURG -- It is far too early to be making definitive decisions on Orioles rookie David Hess. But the righty, initially promoted out of need, is proving that he at least deserves a longer look.
Hess, ranked No. 16 on the Orioles' Top 30 Prospects list, wasn't a touted prospect entering the year. He doesn't have overpowering stuff. But what the 24-year-old has shown -- a calm demeanor and ability to attack the zone -- has resulted in quality starts in two of his first three Major League starts.
And for an Orioles team that has struggled to get consistency out of its rotation, Hess -- who tossed 6 2/3 scoreless innings in Friday's 2-0 win over the Rays -- has been a welcome addition.