The Los Angeles Dodgers have very little to complain about right now. They currently own MLB’s best record and swept the San Diego Padres over the weekend to make a statement.
They had more good news coming their way on Tuesday, when the Dodgers activated third baseman Justin Turner from the IL. To make way, they optioned IF/OF prospect Miguel Vargas.
"The Dodgers activated IF Justin Turner from the injured list and optioned IF/OF Miguel Vargas." - Los Angeles Dodgers
Turner has been dealing with an abdomen injury since mid-July, but it wasn’t anything too serious. With the Dodgers leading the National League West by quite some margin, it made sense to take it slow and not rush Turner's return.
His numbers haven’t been great in 2022. Needless to say, the pressure will be enormous on him to deliver following his return,
Turner has slashed only .257/.332/.405 with a .738 OPS in 86 games this year. He has scored 54 runs and has eight homers to his name.
Los Angeles Dodgers fan base divided on Vargas’ Triple-A return
Some fans seemed annoyed at the fact that Miguel Vargas is being sent back to Triple-A. Vargas is the Dodgers’ #5 overall prospect and has steadily risen through their farm system since 2018.
This year, he currently holds a .291/.383/.497 slash line in 94 games with Triple-A affiliate OKC Dodgers.
Vargas was called up last week to make his long-anticipated MLB Debut against the Giants.
"Miguel Vargas doubles in his first career at bat. He also stole third base shortly after." - Blake Harris
He batted seventh as the DH and hit an RBI double to put the Dodgers 1-0 ahead. He stole third base shortly after as the Dodgers went on to win 3-0. Vargas went 2-for-8 in two games. The potential is limitless, and fans certainly have very high expectations of him.
However, it makes perfect sense for Vargas to return to the minor leagues for now. He is going to get more chances there than in the MLB, and that is exactly what he needs at this pivotal juncture of his career - to play regularly.
The Los Angeles Dodgers already have an excellent squad, and sending Vargas back to Triple-A won’t make a world of difference anyway.
Why would you hamper such a promising, young player’s development by cutting down on his game time? It makes zero sense.