Chicago’s third baseman Miguel Vargas emerged as a key driver of the Sox’s resurgence. Paired with rookie Munetaka Murakami, they powered an attack that sat fifth in runs scored all year. Vargas posted personal bests across almost every batting metric.
That breakout year nearly slipped away. In a chat with Scott Merkin of MLB.com, Vargas revealed he mulled retirement after the 2024 season. He’d hinted at it before, but the recent interview dug deeper.
I reached the final weeks of that year, sat with my dad and we talked… it wasn’t my first time questioning playing, Vargas said. It was a tough moment.
The Dodgers sent Vargas to Chicago at the 2024 deadline, and he never settled in LA. He slumped to .104 in 42 games after the move, finishing the season with a dismal 47 wRC+ over 237 plate appearances across both clubs.
Quitting felt effortless, yet I couldn’t picture another path, Vargas admitted. This is what I’ve done my whole life; I can’t imagine doing anything else, so that uncertainty scared me.
In 2025 Vargas finally earned everyday status, posting a solid .717 OPS. He blasted 33 homers, drove in 106 runs and climbed to 16th among qualified batters with a 134 wRC+. Adding 22 steals showed his all‑around impact. For my money, his power surge redefines the Sox’s lineup.
During the playoffs Vargas became an on‑base juggernaut, posting a .464 OBP over six games thanks largely to nine walks. He launched his inaugural postseason homer in Thursday’s Game 4 of the ALDS.
Below are a few additional notes from the AL Central.
- The Tigers reshuffled their staff this week, according to Evan Woodbery of MLive Media Group. Head athletic trainer Ryne Eubanks and assistant Chris McDonald are exiting after the season. The organization also cut minor‑league operations director Peter Bransfield, outfield‑and‑baserunning coach Arnie Beyeler, and mental‑performance coordinator Aaron Lewis.
- The Royals got a green light from lawmakers for their new stadium. Mayor Quinton Lucas said the council approved funding for a ballpark at Crown Center, a downtown shopping hub. He promised the bill will create a baseball‑focused district that benefits residents, workers and neighborhoods. Kansas City has called Kauffman Stadium home since 1973. Will the new venue truly reshape the city’s baseball scene?