Miguel Vargas, third baseman for the Chicago White Sox, joined the organization as part of a three-team trade involving the Los Angeles Dodgers, the White Sox, and the St. Louis Cardinals. During his first stint with Chicago, he posted a 46 wRC+, but rebounded in 2025 by improving that mark to 101.
In 2026, Vargas is enjoying the best season of his career, slashing .245/.355/.493/.848 with 21 home runs, 59 RBIs, and a 135 wRC+. Vargas has also done good work with the glove and improved as a defender. In 79 games at third base he has .970 and has made only four errors in 686⅓ innings.
Sabermetrically his offense is also elite. His ISO (.248), wOBA (.366) and wRC+ (135) are above-average and shows the player he has become through sheer hard work since coming up to the majors during the 2022 season with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Miguel, there are seven Cubans in the All-Star Game… Actually eight. From Minnie Miñoso in the past to Miguel Vargas today, how does that make you feel?
It’s incredible, honestly. Like you said, being able to represent legends such as Minnie Miñoso, José Abreu, and all the Cubans who have represented this organization means a lot to me.
How much more special is it to now share the American League clubhouse with Aroldis Chapman, Randy Arozarena, and the other Cuban players?
I think I sat at Aroldis’ locker for about 10 minutes because, honestly, it’s hard to believe. Not that long ago, I was watching these guys play in the Major Leagues, go to the postseason, and win World Series championships. Now, getting to share a clubhouse with them is incredible for me. I’m really excited about it.
What’s been the key to the White Sox having such a great season?
I think it’s our unity, the chemistry we have as a team. We’re a young group, and we all want to prove that we belong in this league and that we can win at the highest level.
The Japanese media and Japanese fans are also very interested in Miguel Vargas now. What do you think about that?
I think what he’s brought to this organization has been incredible—not just on the field, but off it as well. For all of us, it’s been something really special.
What have you learned from him?
Miguel Vargas: Everything. His work ethic. When you see a guy like that working on his body every single day and getting himself ready to play 162 games, it’s just incredible.
You’re the son of Miguel de Lázaro Vargas, right?
Miguel Vargas: Yes, that’s my dad.
He played 22 years in Cuba as a third baseman and was a member of the Cuban National Team. Tell me about him.
Miguel Vargas: Yeah, he’s a stud. He’s a beast.
Right up there with Omar Linares?
Miguel Vargas: Yeah, for me… for me, he’s the best… No, I’m kidding (laughs). But seriously, he’s a beast. He’s really something special.