2024 Breakout Bombers: Roc Riggio

2024 Breakout Bombers : Roc Riggio

5-foot-9

180-pounds

Second Baseman

Left-handed batter

21-years-old

 

Passion and fire are often mistaken for a bad attitude. Sometimes the two go hand in hand. The Yankees have typically avoided these types of players in the draft as a result. It’s no secret they value professionalism and maturity.

Thus, it might have raised a couple of eyebrows when the Yankees drafted Roc Riggio in the third round of the 2023 draft. He has made a name for himself by doing things to ruffle the feathers of opponents. Beneath the surface of these antics, however, is a player who is quite mature and intentional with his behavior.

It comes down to strategy. Riggio knows that other players get rattled when he says or does certain things. He also knows that his own disposition is calm in the face of such behavior, and that he on the other hand thrives on it.

The result; Riggio put together one of the best seasons in NCAA baseball this year. He hit .335/.461/.679/1.139 as a draft eligible sophomore. He had 18 homeruns, 17 doubles, three triples, and seven stolen bases in 59 games.

Despite his smaller stature, Riggio packs a big, powerful swing from the left side. He is aggressive within the zone and likes to lift balls to the pull side. Riggio had an average exit velocity of 86 mph in 2023 and maxed out at 110. He exercises good patience at the plate and is an adept contact hitter.

Riggio will not be mistaken for a plus defender at second base, with below average range and arm strength according to scouts. He makes up for it with grit and tenacity though, which allows him to maximize his tools.

Most scouts agree Riggio will hit at the next level. He has a swing that is made for Yankees Stadium. In a limited 22 game sample size, Riggio wasn’t at his best in his first taste of the minor leagues. This is not a concern at this point since it was his first taste of professional baseball.

Next year, Riggio will start in either Low-A or High-A and should be a fast mover. If his skills translate well he could be in for a breakout in 2024.

Riggio’s projection is a bit easier than others because he’s already physically maxed out. It’s not hard to envision a guy who can hit 25 homeruns from the left side in Yankees Stadium. That would be great production from a second baseman. The fire and desire he plays with would be nice to have in a playoff environment. Riggio will hit his floor if his power does not translate well to wood bats. Given his defensive profile, he’ll need to hit to garner attention as a prospect. If he is not able to do that, there is bust potential here.

The Yankees snagged a fun, exciting, and talented player in the fourth round of the 2023 draft. I’d imagine Riggio will keep fans entertained and on their toes. Hopefully he does some things that bring them to their feet!