How Has Miguel Vargas Fared Since Being Traded to the White Sox?

Following the White Sox’s 21st consecutive loss on August 5, a viral photo of Miguel Vargas suggested that the former Dodger was less than thrilled about his recent trade to Chicago.

Vargas, who the Dodgers had signed as an amateur from Cuba, had established a significant role within the Dodgers’ organization. This season, he played 27 games in left field, logging 166 innings and making 20 starts. With Teoscar Hernández in right field and no other left fielders challenging for Vargas’ position, he seemed poised to be a regular part of a potential playoff team.

However, Vargas’s situation changed drastically on July 30, when the Dodgers traded him to the White Sox in a three-team deal involving the Cardinals. In exchange, the Dodgers received reliever Michael Kopech. Consequently, the 24-year-old found himself on the worst team in the league.

Since the trade, the White Sox have struggled significantly, losing 11 of their last 13 games. They have fired their manager, matched the American League record for consecutive losses, and are on track to break the modern record for most losses in a season. This stands in stark contrast to Vargas’s previous situation with the Dodgers, who were leading their division by six and a half games the day before the trade.

Despite the challenging circumstances, there is a silver lining for Vargas. The move to Chicago has provided him with more playing time and valuable Major League experience. He has started almost every game since joining the White Sox, playing various positions including third base, left field, and designated hitter. Under the new manager Grady Sizemore, Vargas has mainly been utilized at third base.

At the plate, Vargas has had some difficulty, with a batting line of .116/.240/.209 over 50 plate appearances. His struggles have led to the White Sox sending Dominic Fletcher to the minors. Nevertheless, the team seems committed to giving Vargas the time he needs to adjust to Major League pitching.

While Vargas’s current situation marks a disappointing end to what could have been his first World Series season, he still has many years ahead in his career. His time with the White Sox will help him grow and potentially secure a stable role with any future team.