Miguel Vargas reported for the start of Spring Training with an opportunity to secure the everyday role at second base, which has been somewhat interrupted due to a hairline fracture in his right pinky.
Vargas sustained the injury early into camp but has been in the Los Angeles Dodgers lineup on a regular basis since Cactus League games began. However, it’s come with the caveat of the heralded Dodgers prospect not being cleared to swing a bat.
As Vargas began hitting off a tee and participating in batting practice, there was an initial expectation he would begin taking normal at-bats over the weekend.
With that not yet coming to fruition, Vargas admitted only being able to track pitches during games has been strange, via Jack Harris of the L.A. Times:
“It’s so weird,” the 23-year-old said with a self-deprecating laugh this past weekend. “I feel so uncomfortable at the plate.”
Despite the limitations placed on the 23-year-old, he’s managed to draw four walks in 12 plate appearances. Vargas drew one walk in four consecutive games before failing to do so in his last two Cactus League starts.
Vargas drew just two walks in 50 plate appearances while up with the Dodgers last season.
“He’s walking more than he’s striking out,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts joked after Vargas drew his third walk of the spring. “Teams haven’t got the memo yet.”
When will Miguel Vargas start swinging?
The Dodgers are off Tuesday before returning to action against the Seattle Mariners, which is when the team hopes to clear Vargas for his first swings in a Cactus League game.
Although he’s only been able to watch pitches while standing in the batter’s box, continuing to make starts has allowed Vargas to gain valuable experience at second base.
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