Primarily based on the viral photograph of Miguel Vargas after the White Sox’s twenty first consecutive loss on Aug. 5, the previous Dodger appeared something however content material together with his current transfer to Chicago.
Vargas, whom the Dodgers signed as an newbie out of Cuba, had carved out a precious function within the Dodges’ group. He appeared in 27 video games in left area this 12 months, taking part in 166 innings and making 20 begins. With Teoscar Hernández in proper area and no left fielders doing their greatest to remove Vargas’ job, his path seemed clear to be a daily contributor on a possible playoff roster.
Together with the handful of gamers traded on the deadline, Vargas noticed his circumstances drastically change on July 30. The Dodgers packaged Vargas in a three-team commerce involving the Cardinals and the White Sox, sending Vargas to Chicago in change for reliever Michael Kopech. After the transfer, the 24-year previous discovered himself on the worst staff within the main leagues.
Since July 30, the White Sox have misplaced 11 out of their final 13 video games. They’ve fired their supervisor, tied the American League file for consecutive losses, and are effectively on their approach to setting the trendy file for many losses in a season. It’s a steep fall for a participant who got here from a corporation that leads its division yearly. The Dodgers had been six and a half video games forward of second place the day earlier than Vargas was traded.
It is very important take a look at the intense facet in disappointing conditions. For Vargas, becoming a member of Chicago has allowed him to realize extra expertise within the Main Leagues. He’s getting considerably extra taking part in time than he did with the Dodgers.
He has began in all however one recreation at quite a lot of positions since his first day with the franchise, together with third base (8), left area (1), and designated hitter (3). Because the White Sox’s new supervisor Grady Sizemore took over following the twenty first consecutive loss, Vargas has been primarily taking part in third base.
On the plate, Vargas has struggled a bit, slashing .116/.240/.209 in 50 plate appearances. A batting efficiency like that led to the White Sox optioning Dominic Fletcher to the minor leagues. However, it looks like the franchise is decided to present Vargas time to regulate to the Main League pitchers.
It’s an unlucky ending to what may have been Vargas’ first World Collection season, however the younger participant nonetheless has a few years remaining in his profession. His expertise with the White Sox will enable him to develop right into a participant with a constant function for any staff.
Picture Credit score: Peter Aiken-USA TODAY Sports activities
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