Dodgers rookie keeps getting on base without swinging

Los Angeles Dodgers infielder Miguel Vargas Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Watch: Dodgers rookie Miguel Vargas keeps getting on base despite not swinging the bat

By Matthew Brown | Last updated 3/6/23

Los Angeles Dodgers top prospect Miguel Vargas is dealing with a hairline fracture in his pinky that prohibits him from swinging the bat. But that hasn’t stopped the 23-year-old from boasting a .400 on-base percentage in spring training.

That’s right, Vargas, who stands at the plate with his bat firmly planted on his shoulders, has drawn a walk in four out of his 10 plate appearances this spring.

Miguel Vargas hasn't swung at a pitch all spring and everyone knows he isn't going to swing and he has 4 walks in 8 trips to the plate. pic.twitter.com/QpigxPctmr
— Codify (@CodifyBaseball) March 3, 2023

“It’s so weird,” Vargas said in an interview. “I feel so uncomfortable at the plate.”

If Vargas is unable to swing the bat, why would Los Angeles put him in the lineup? Two reasons: First, Vargas’ injury isn't so severe that it prevents him from playing defense and getting reps at second base. Second, the Dodgers believe having him bat in spring training allows him to track pitches so he can be prepared when he is able to swing.

“He’s seen so many pitches at the plate,” manager Dave Roberts said. “I think that has a way of helping too.”

Vargas, whose four walks lead the team this spring, is as confused as fans as to why pitchers don’t attack the zone when he is up at the plate.

“They probably don’t know,” Vargas said. “If they knew, they’d probably use three pitches.”

One pitcher who seemed to know of Vargas’ inability to swing the bat was former Dodger, Zack Greinke.

Zack Greinke vs Miguel Vargas AB (pitches ranging from 59mph to 92mph). Greinke f'ing with Vargas who hasn't been cleared to swing. pic.twitter.com/PwPPPMC5lz
— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) March 5, 2023

On March 4, Greinke pulled out his entire arsenal and seemed to be toying with the rookie. Greinke threw a 92 mph fastball down the middle before throwing a changeup that was 20 mph slower. The veteran then lobbed a 59 mph curveball knowing the rookie couldn’t bite at it. Greinke then finished him off with another fastball down the middle.

While there is no official word on when Vargas will be able to swing the bat during games, he is starting to take hacks during batting practice.

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