Miguel Vargas Feels Comfortable Playing the Outfield For Dodgers Going Forward

Through his first two starts in the outfield this spring, Miguel Vargas is looking comfortable in his new position for the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Vargas, a natural third baseman, was asked to play second base last year and is now transitioning to the outfield for this year.

Dodgers Nation’s own Doug McKain spoke to Vargas about his move and how he is feeling about it.

“Yeah, I’m feeling great. I feel a lot of confidence out there. I worked a lot with Clayton [McCullough] in the offseason. I think he helped me a lot.”

Via Dodgers Nation YouTube Channel

Vargas has also been working with former Dodgers outfielder Andre Ethier who has taught him new techniques he can use to better position himself to run down balls, such as reading hitters’ swing paths.

On his second play of spring training, Vargas made a sliding grab in left field which caught the eye of manager Dave Roberts.

Roberts said, “His jumps on the ball have been great.”

Barring an injury, there won’t be a spot on the Dodgers’ Opening Day roster for Vargas. That 26th spot was held by Manuel Margot before he was traded to the Minnesota Twins, and will now be held by Kiké Hernández, who the team agreed to bring back on a one-year deal on Monday.

However, if Vargas keeps hitting the ball and fielding his position well, he could make it very difficult for the Dodgers to keep him in Triple-A for very long.

Photo Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports