The reason Miguel Vargas isn’t in White Sox lineup vs. Pirates on Wednesday

Miguel Vargas is out of the Chicago White Sox starting lineup against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Wednesday as manager Will Venable gives his everyday third baseman a scheduled rest day during a demanding September stretch.

Vargas had started every White Sox game since August 13, making Wednesday’s absence a rare break for the 2026 All-Star. The White Sox enter tonight’s game vs. the Pittsburgh Pirates at Rate Field, leading the AL Central by two games over the Cleveland Guardians.

MLB.com’s Scott Merkin took to X, formerly Twitter, on Wednesday to relay Venable’s explanation for sitting Vargas.

“Just trying to get through this stretch, so most likely will be the last off day for Miguel Vargas. I think this is 13 or 14 in a row that we’re getting going, so you’re just trying to get through here and put everyone in the best spot.”

The absence does not stem from an injury. The White Sox are giving the 26-year-old a rest after he appeared in 142 games and accumulated 627 plate appearances this season.

The slugging infielder has produced a career year for Chicago, batting .250 with a .361 on-base percentage and .482 slugging percentage. He has added 30 home runs, 79 RBIs, 95 runs, and 16 stolen bases. Over his last 30 games, Vargas has hit .292 with a .420 on-base percentage and .496 slugging percentage.

Colson Montgomery will start at third base in Vargas’ place, while Chase Meidroth handles shortstop. Davis Martin takes the mound for Chicago opposite Pittsburgh right-hander Lake Bachar.

Wednesday is the second game of a 13-game run without an off day that began Tuesday and runs through September 20, which is why Venable called this most likely Vargas’ last rest of the stretch.

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