Minor League & Prospects Thread

I’m picking an outfielder vibe on him. Something just tells me he’ll get his MLB chance in LF instead of at second base…

I think MLB should go back to the regular size bases, they are making a mockery of the game. 

He's only 5' 6".   That seems like second baseman to me, a spot the Yanks have a need for if Geyber doesn't come back. 

I agree, if they are going to continue to use the oversized bags, get rid of the oven mitts.  Remember when players used to roll up their batting glove in their hand once the reached base?  

How many stolen bases would those guys have with these new rules and bases? 

Really interesting how kids emulate MLBers. My buddy coaches a youth baseball team, probably ages in the 7 to 10 year old range. He told me all the players have sliding gloves. He has one player who resembles the catcher from sandlot. Can't run at all but when he reaches first base he puts on the oven mitt. 

Pinstripes Nation: Yankees’ internal options to replace Torres

Despite facing doubts about his size and power, Triple-A second baseman Caleb Durbin, standing at just 5-foot-6, has consistently proven his critics wrong with his impressive hitting ability.

Durbin’s batting prowess has been evident at every level he’s played. This year, his .299 average leads his club. Moreover, he’s a prolific base stealer, swiping 36 bags last year and currently tied for fourth in the International League with 15 steals in 35 games.

Known for his relentless work ethic, Durbin primarily plays second base, his strongest position, due to the absence of the more highly regarded prospect Jorbit Vivas, who has been sidelined for most of the year. However, Durbin has also demonstrated his versatility by starting at third base, shortstop, left field, and center field.

The Yankees acquired Durbin from the Braves just three days after Christmas in 2022, in exchange for big-league reliever Lucas Luetge. Two and a half years later, Durbin appears to be on the path to becoming a major leaguer. He could potentially compete for the starting role at second base in 2025, either immediately or at some point during the season. A utility role is another possibility for Durbin.

One of the most intriguing names in the Yankees’ organization is Roc Riggio, the second baseman for the High A Hudson Valley Renegades. Riggio, who stands at just 5-foot-9, is reminiscent of Alex Verdugo in terms of his playing style and personality. He’s an entertaining player to watch and an engaging personality to interview. Despite his smaller stature, Riggio possesses a strong bat and surprising power.

MLB Pipeline’s scouting report on Riggio draws comparisons to Red Sox great Dustin Pedroia, one of the most successful undersized second basemen in recent history. The similarities are evident, and the Yankees made a shrewd move by selecting Riggio in the fourth round of last year’s draft. He possesses exceptional skills and a rare “it” factor that sets him apart.

Although Riggio’s current batting average with Hudson Valley stands at .212, he has consistently demonstrated his ability to make solid contact. It’s not unreasonable to envision Riggio as the Yankees’ future starting second baseman, given his talent and potential to excel at the highest level.

In Tampa, the Yankees have a trio of promising 19-year-old infield prospects.

Alongside Arias and Lombard, there’s the lesser-known Enmanuel Tejeda, who currently ranks fourth in the Florida State League with a .330 batting average. Despite his diminutive stature at 5-foot-9 and 158 pounds and a lack of power, Tejeda’s manager spoke highly of him during our conversation before Wednesday’s game.

James Cooper characterized Tejeda as an individual who perceives himself as a formidable force, despite his physical limitations. He likened Tejeda to a small cat who views himself as a mighty lion, exuding confidence and determination on the field.

Tejeda has been sidelined for the past week due to a mild shoulder strain, which he suffered while making a diving play at third base. However, he is expected to return to action by next week, if not sooner.

While second base is considered Tejeda’s primary position, he also showcases his versatility by playing third base and shortstop. His hitting prowess has been evident throughout his young career, as he batted .289 in the Dominican Summer League in 2022, .307 in the Florida Complex League last year, and is currently maintaining an average well above .300 as one of the youngest players in the FSL.

Much like the Yankees’ lesser-known infield prospects performing at higher levels—Durbin and Riggio—Tejeda has the potential to become a future Yankee who makes a significant impact at the major league level.