Hess optioned to Minors as Bundy returns

MINNEAPOLIS -- David Hess is returning to Triple-A after a 10-game Major League debut with a plan for improvement.
Hess was optioned to Triple-A Norfolk before Friday's game in Minnesota to make room for Dylan Bundy's return from the disabled list. Bundy (6-7, 3.75 ERA) started Friday for Baltimore after recovering from a left ankle sprain.
The Orioles also reinstated infielder Luis Sardiñas from the 60-day disabled list and assigned him outright to Triple-A after he cleared waivers.
"I think David [can get] back working on some things in a little bit more relaxed situation," Baltimore manager Buck Showalter said. "He knows what he needs to do. We had a good talk today. Really want him to continue working on the changeup and command of the fastball. I think he understands. There will be some pitches he'll make down there and get away with. I told him, 'Hold yourself to a high standard. You've got a pretty good feel now with 10 appearances, that you should have a pretty good feel for the difference.'"
Hess (2-5, 6.06) won his Major League debut, a six-inning start against Tampa Bay on May 12 when he gave up three runs on six hits. He made eight more starts and last pitched on Wednesday with two relief innings.

One part of Hess' makeup that impressed Showalter was his confidence.
"David likes to compete," Showalter said. "He isn't scared. 'Here's my pitch, see what you can do with it.' I love that part of it. That sometimes is as hard to find as the other. He's not intimidated by the level and the competition. That part of it is really going to play in his favor."
Bundy made his first appearance since June 23. He was 3-0 with a 1.98 ERA in four June starts.
Tillman plan
Showalter said Chris Tillman's rehab start on Thursday was promising, and he is currently scheduled to make two more Minor League rehab appearances. Tillman will next pitch for Class A Advanced Frederick and make at least one more start in Triple-A as he makes his way back from a lower back strain.
Tillman allowed four earned runs in six innings for Triple-A Norfolk on Thursday. Showalter was able to watch the game.
"All his pitches were there," Showalter said. "I thought his command was a lot better."