Despite the success that the Chicago White Sox have seen this year, the club will be underrepresented at the 2026 MLB All-Star Game. Third baseman Miguel Vargas is the only representative heading to the Midsummer Classic, though right-hander Davis Martin is also deserving of a spot.
Miguel Vargas has proven to be an All-Star with the season he is having
Players often need a little seasoning before reaching their potential in the big leagues. Vargas has been no different, and his breakout season has not come without some struggles.
The Cuban native hit below .200 in each of the last three seasons, but has pushed his average to a career-high .245 this year. He’s setting career highs in other categories, too. Through 89 games, the 26-year-old has an .851 OPS (second among AL third basemen), 20 home runs (tied for second), and 56 RBI (tied for first with Junior Caminero).
Vargas is also about to set new career highs in walks (currently 56) and stolen bases (11). His hard work during the offseasons has helped shape him into an All-Star.
“It means a lot,” Vargas said to Scott Merkin of MLB.com on July 4. “I put a lot of hard work in there and it’s great to see some payoff.”
Davis Martin should have been the White Sox’s other All-Star
Vargas’s extra efforts have helped him secure an All-Star bid, but the same can’t be said for Davis Martin. After missing all of 2023 and part of 2024 following Tommy John surgery, Martin is enjoying a breakout season and proving to be among the better pitchers in the American League.
Martin’s nine wins are tied for second in the AL. His 3.08 ERA is seventh-best. Both are already career-bests. He’s allowed the 15th-fewest walks (29 in 98.1 IP) and the second-fewest home runs (six).
Martin’s stretch through April and May was especially dominant. He was 7-1 with a 1.73 ERA and 65 strikeouts in 62.2 IP.
Martin has stepped forward to be the ace of the White Sox staff this year. Shane Smith, last year’s lone All-Star, was unable to replicate 2025’s success.
Pitchers may drop out of Tuesday’s (July 14) All-Star Game for one reason or another, so there’s still a chance that Martin gets his opportunity to join the roster.
