In Cleveland, Chicago White Sox third baseman Miguel Vargas spoke about the potential of becoming an All-Star. “That’s something I want to reach. It’s something everybody wants,” Vargas stated Sunday at Rate Field. He emphasized team goals over personal accolades, highlighting their strong performance and bigger ambitions.
The White Sox have experienced success, keeping them in contention around the Fourth of July weekend. Vargas’s contributions have fueled All-Star discussions. The All-Star Game is scheduled for July 14 in Philadelphia, with rosters announced Saturday night. The Sox last had multiple All-Stars in 2022 with Tim Anderson and Liam Hendriks.
Several Sox players, including Vargas, are under consideration this year. If selected, he would become the first Sox third baseman to receive this honor since Joe Crede in 2008. Manager Will Venable praised Vargas’s consistency, noting last year’s flashes have turned into dependable performance. “He’s put in offseason work to stay strong and consistent,” Venable added.
On Friday, Vargas ranked first among major-league third basemen in runs (57), tied for second in home runs (19), and third in RBIs (52), OPS (.839), slugging (.484), and wRC+ (133). Vargas credited his consistent preparation and the team energy for his success. “I aim to be better every day and enjoy the game,” he mentioned, acknowledging the team’s positive atmosphere.
White Sox pitcher Davis Martin’s All-Star potential is also a topic. The last homegrown right-handed Sox pitcher honored as an All-Star was James Baldwin in 2000. Martin’s recent record is impressive: 9-3 with a 3.08 ERA in 17 starts, ranking well in various categories. Venable described Martin as crucial to the team, despite some less-than-perfect outings.
Shortstop Colson Montgomery, leading in home runs for major-league shortstops (21), is another contender. He ranks third in RBIs (49) and fourth in slugging (.479). Conversely, first baseman Munetaka Murakami, who hit 20 home runs before June, is on the injured list due to a right hamstring strain. “Getting him healthy is our priority,” Venable said, acknowledging Murakami’s All-Star caliber despite the injury.
As the All-Star announcements approach, Venable expressed enthusiasm and readiness for both selections and potential disappointments. “We’ll be proud of whoever makes it,” he concluded.