Dave Roberts ‘Much More’ Comfortable With Miguel Vargas as Dodgers Starting Second Baseman
Before the 2023 spring training games, there were many questions regarding the Boys in Blue. One of those questions was, “Where will Miguel Vargas play?” We all knew Vargas would be getting a ton of playing time in 2023 after getting some run in the back half of the 2022 season. He’s proved he could hit the ball anywhere on the field and has the ability to play multiple positions on the field.
People around the team guessed he’d play in left field, others predicted third base, but he will be the team’s primary second baseman. Vargas is listed as a third baseman, but with Max Muncy getting the bulk of time there, Vargas will play the four spot. Many pundits questioned whether he can play defense there, but thus far in spring training, he has proven he definitely can.
With his great play at second base, Dodgers skipper Dave Roberts said that he feels much more comfortable with the young prospect at second (per Bill Plunkett of the Orange County Register).
“It’s one of those things where the work started in the winter,” Roberts said. “I guess it’s just a bet on the person, the player, to kind of try to dominate the defense and get up to speed. Each day, each week, there’s been marked improvement. Today, he – turned some nice double plays and that’s what we need from him.”
Those familiar with Vargas in his early days with the Dodgers know about his power in the box and his ability to be a great hitter in the big leaguers; however, his defense has been a huge bonus.
He’s proved that he can play multiple positions, and it looks like he’s officially added second base to his arsenal.
The 23-year-old was recently listed as the Dodgers’ No. 3 prospect and No. 37 overall by MLB.com. He is set to become one of the main pillars of the Dodgers organization, and lead them into the future. Right now, Vargas will play a big role with the team and is among the favorites to win NL Rookie of the year.
All that is nice, but if he can continue his defensive ways, he could eventually even get a gold glove. In the meantime, Dodgers Nation is hoping he can be effective and contribute on offense and defense.
Have you subscribed to our YouTube Channel yet? Subscribe and hit that notification bell to stay up to date on all the latest Dodgers news, rumors, interviews, live streams, and more!
