All signs point to LSU pitcher Zack Hess returning for his junior season. The sophomore was considered a top-100 MLB Draft prospect but was selected in the 34th round by the Atlanta Braves on Wednesday (June 6).
Hess' fall is likely explained by the fact he told clubs it would take a large signing bonus to lure him away from LSU. Teams normally don't select players in the first 10 rounds they aren't already confident they can sign.
Hess is a draft-eligible sophomore, meaning he has two more years of eligibility and therefore potentially more leverage in signing bonus negotiations.