Miguel Vargas’ Journey to Becoming an All-Star with the White Sox

Miguel Vargas faced difficult times in 2024. “It’s hard at the time, at the moment, I was processing,” Vargas reflected. “I just want to have joy and be happy at the field and be myself and I couldn’t find that.” Now, he has emerged as an All-Star.

Vargas, third baseman for the Chicago White Sox, credits his teammates for their support. “These guys, the last couple of years, they have been helping me,” he mentioned. “They carried me to this point and I cannot be more glad to be part of this group.” On June 23, 2026, Vargas hit a solo home run against the Guardians at Rate Field. He will represent the White Sox at the All-Star Game on July 14 in Philadelphia. Rosters were announced Saturday evening.

“It means a lot,” Vargas expressed. “I put a lot of hard work in there and it’s great to see some payoff. I truly believe that more than one guy deserves to go to the All-Star from this team. But I’m glad to represent all of them.” Vargas is the first Sox third baseman to make the All-Star team since Joe Crede in 2008.

Manager Will Venable shared his thoughts on Vargas’ achievement. “I’m so happy for (Vargas),” Venable said. “You’re not supposed to have favorites and I’m not going to say he’s my favorite, but I’m a big fan of Vargy and I think it really starts with the kind of guy he is.” Venable praised Vargas for his clubhouse presence and performance on the field.

Vargas entered a game against the Cleveland Guardians with impressive statistics, slashing .248/.359/.495 with 20 home runs and 55 RBIs in 86 games. He ranked 18th in MLB WAR and 13th among position players. Vargas remarked, “It’s a long way for me. A couple of years ago, I had a lot of tough moments.” His progress is evident as he hit .104 in 42 games with the Sox in 2024 after being acquired from the Dodgers. Last season, he achieved a .234 average with 16 home runs and 60 RBIs.

This year, Vargas leads major-league third basemen in several categories including runs (58) and walks (51). He ranks second in home runs, OPS (.854), and slugging, while placing third in weighted runs created plus (138).

“We saw some really good stretches,” Venable commented on Vargas’ 2025 performance. “But it just kind of ended up kind of going in and out of that.” He noted that Vargas worked hard on his body and swing, leading to higher bat speed and sustained performance.

Venable expressed disappointment about not having more Sox players on the AL roster. “I’m like pissed about it, honestly,” he said. “I just think we have so many good candidates.” He remains hopeful for other players to join as replacements.

Referring to Vargas, Venable described him as “a special guy.” “He’s got a special easy way about how he goes through the day,” Venable explained. “He’s extremely competitive, he’s fiery internally, we see how hard he runs.” This combination has earned Vargas his first All-Star selection.

Vargas shared gratitude towards his teammates, coaches, and fans. “This is a great moment for my family as well,” he shared. “I know how important this is for them too. I want to share that with them.”