May 30, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers second baseman Miguel Vargas (17) takes batting before the game against the Washington Nationals at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports Jayne Kamin-Oncea/USA TODAY Sports

Miguel Vargas Officially Becomes United States Citizen

Originally posted on Dodger Blue | By Scott Geirman | Last updated 4/19/24

Los Angeles Dodgers prospect Miguel Vargas opened the 2024 season in Triple-A with the Oklahoma City Baseball Club, building on his productive end to last year in the Minor Leagues.

The 24-year-old rose through the Dodgers’ system, displaying strong hit tools. He was given an opportunity to gain a foothold with the big club last year, but was unable to stick.

However, he’s excelled in the early part of this season, primarily playing left field in OKC, batting .286/.425/.536 over 16 games.

To go with his exciting start on the diamond, Vargas has missed the last few games due to taking his United States citizenship test, which he passed, via OKC communication director Alex Freedman:

Miguel Vargas is not in OKC's lineup for a second consecutive day, but it is for very good reason.

Earlier today he took his U.S. citizenship test and passed with flying red, white, and blue colors.

Congrats, Miggy!

— Alex Freedman (@azfreedman) April 18, 2024

Becoming a U.S. citizen is an incredible achievement, and it is deserving of huge congratulations. The test is a challenging one that takes a lot of studying and work to achieve.

Although he had a disappointing 2023 season, Vargas’ future is still bright. With his power output and at-bat quality so far, combined with the Dodgers’ struggles at the bottom of the order, he could be a potential addition to their MLB team.

When could we see Miguel Vargas back with the Dodgers?

Given the immense amount of uncertainty and tough run of performance with the Dodgers’ big league outfield options, Vargas could be on a quick road to MLB.

Vargas has played 13 of his 16 games in left field, playing a competent level of defense. In MLB, Chris Taylor, Kiké Hernández and James Outman have collectively been an underwhelming group.

On the infield, Gavin Lux has made life difficult overall, forcing the Dodgers to keep Mookie Betts at short. They recently called up Andy Pages to get some run, but Vargas’ previous experience could give him a soft landing when recalled.

This article first appeared on Dodger Blue and was syndicated with permission.

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