Yankees minors: Hess struggles as Somerset falls to Hartford

On July 4, the Double-A Somerset Patriots lost 6-1 to the Hartford Yard Goats. Ben Hess allowed three runs over four innings, continuing his inconsistent performance this season. His fellow pitchers varied in effectiveness, with Hayden Merda delivering a notable relief outing. Meanwhile, other Yankees affiliates had mixed results, highlighted by a strong showing from the Low-A Tampa Tarpons, who defeated the St. Lucie Mets 10-3. The minor league system's overall performance remains a point of interest for the Yankees organization as they look to develop talent.

• 11:00 AMYahoo Sports — Yankees prospects: Hess still up and down with Somerset