Cuban third baseman Miguel Vargas carved out a significant milestone this past Sunday, hitting his 28th home run of the 2026 season. This pivotal moment propelled the Chicago White Sox to a 7-5 victory over the Detroit Tigers.
According to Pelota Cubana, Vargas smashed the home run in the ninth inning off right-hander Jacob Waguespack, who delivered a 94.2 mph fastball. Vargas, hailing from Havana, powered the ball at 98.0 mph, sending it 381 feet over the left-field fence.
Batting third and manning third base, Vargas finished the game 1-for-4 with the homer, scoring a run, driving in another, walking once, and striking out once.
This marks his fifth home run in August, underscoring the incredible power surge the 26-year-old is experiencing.
Historic Achievement for Vargas
By reaching 28 home runs, Vargas becomes the third third baseman for the White Sox—among those who have played at least 60% of their games at third base—to achieve this feat in the 21st century. Previously, only Todd Frazier with 40 home runs in 2016 and Joe Crede with 30 in 2006 reached similar heights.
In the 20th century, two notable figures of the franchise, Robin Ventura with 34 homers in 1996 and Bill Melton with 33 in 1971, also surpassed this benchmark.
A Breakthrough Season
The 2026 season marks a significant leap for Vargas compared to his earlier years in Major League Baseball. In 2025, he played 138 games with Chicago, finishing with 16 home runs and 60 RBIs. This year, he has already doubled that home run count with several weeks left to play.
Vargas's overall stats for this season reflect an elite campaign, boasting a batting average of .239, 72 RBIs, 82 runs scored, 12 stolen bases, and an OPS of .835.
In July, Vargas earned his first selection to the American League All-Star Game, becoming the first White Sox third baseman to receive this honor since Joe Crede in 2008. During the All-Star Game held in Philadelphia, he hit a memorable 433-foot home run.
Chasing 30 Home Runs
Vargas's home run progression has been consistent throughout the season. He reached 24 homers at the start of August and has since added four more to total 28.
The White Sox concluded the game with a 65-58 record, while the Tigers fell to 60-64. With more games left to play, Vargas stands just two home runs away from reaching 30 in a single MLB season, a milestone no Cuban third baseman has achieved with this franchise.
FAQs About Miguel Vargas's Historic Season
Who are the other White Sox third basemen with similar home run achievements?
In the 21st century, Todd Frazier hit 40 home runs in 2016 and Joe Crede hit 30 in 2006. In the 20th century, Robin Ventura hit 34 in 1996, and Bill Melton hit 33 in 1971.
How has Miguel Vargas's performance improved in 2026?
In 2026, Vargas has already doubled his home run count from 2025, with 28 home runs and 72 RBIs compared to 16 home runs and 60 RBIs the previous year.