Underrated Yankees infield prospect evolved into a menace in June

Yankees infield prospect Roc Riggio has always been a menace -- or, more accurately, a stinker.

Luckily for New York's fortunes, Riggio grew into his prospect status during the month of June, while most of you were too distracted fretting over Spencer Jones and begging for a Jasson Dominguez call-up (while his oblique had other plans). Now, after a somewhat silent start to his pro career, it looks like there's at least a chance Riggio eventually brings his unique brand of mischief and edge to a Yankees team that could always use more attitude.

Let's take a look at some of that attitude, shall we?

Yankees prospect Roc Riggio adding to second base conversation on farm

Yeah. That's the good stuff.

But Riggio wouldn't be reviled by rivals if he didn't have the talent to back it up, and after a June offensive explosion and a return of his power, he's now rejoined the conversation about potential internal Gleyber Torres replacements for 2025 and beyond, alongside Caleb Durbin and Jorbit Vivas.

Riggio isn't quite in the upper minors with those two yet, but his June was a sight to behold for High-A Hudson Valley. He posted a 142 wRC+ last month, matching his returning power (.476 slugging percentage) with patience (.392 OBP). He's also freshly 22 years old and, yes, swings from the left side of the plate.

Riggio's game has always been greater than the sum of its parts; the Oklahoma State product matches tenacity with above-average game power, speed, and versatility. Oh, and don't forget defense, as well as a flair for the dramatic. It's no secret that Riggio's pedigree is based on a foundation of dedication rather than natural talent; in fact, the man himself called his skills "mediocre" on Twitter.

He's always been willing to outwork the competition, though, and after a somewhat anonymous start to the season, he's shown signs of escaping prospect purgatory in June. Now, he can really let his personality shine, with a promotion to Double-A Somerset hopefully around the corner.