© Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
BARQUISIMETO — After re-signing to a minor league deal with the Arizona Diamondbacks, Ildemaro Vargas has been on a tear in winter ball.
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Sep 16, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Detailed view of the jersey of Arizona Diamondbacks infielder Ildemaro Vargas (6) against the San Francisco Giants at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
The 34-year-old Venezuelan infielder is currently playing for Cardenales de Lara in the Venezuelan Professional Baseball League, where he has been a crucial part of the lineup. Through his first 140 plate appearances, Vargas is hitting .365 with four home runs, 19 RBIs and a .945 OPS.
That success helped translate into another opportunity with the Diamondbacks, which became official on Dec. 19, as Vargas earned another chance to compete for a roster spot this spring.
Aug 27, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Brewers shortstop Andruw Monasterio (14) attempts to stretch a base hit into a double and is tagged out by Arizona Diamondbacks second base Ildemaro Vargas (6) in the ninth inning at American Family Field. Mandatory Credit: Michael McLoone-Imagn Images
The production and contract speak to more than just numbers. They highlight Vargas’ veteran presence, not only in Venezuela but also his continued value to Arizona.
In a season plagued by injuries, including to key players, Vargas filled whatever role was asked of him as a utility player. Even after suffering a foot injury midway through the season, he returned and continued to contribute.
Sep 5, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks second base Ildemaro Vargas (6) hits a single against the Boston Red Sox in the fifth inning at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
After initially failing to secure a roster spot last spring, Vargas eventually worked his way back into the organization and made the most of his 38 appearances. In limited at-bats, he posted a .270 batting average with three home runs and 19 RBIs.
Vargas doesn’t have a power profile like Diamondbacks stars Ketel Marte or Corbin Carroll, but he has built his value through contact and plate discipline. That approach aligns with the team’s identity and is something he has continued to showcase with Cardenales.
Golpe oportuno 👊⚾
Ildemaro Vargas soltó un doblete clave para remolcar a Luisangel Acuña y abrir la pizarra en la baja del primero 💥
Con el #BDT el impulso llega justo a tiempo 🔝
📹 @1baseballtv#UnaVidaUnaLiga #LVBP #BeisbolVenezolano pic.twitter.com/EP6SGyDyJq
— #UnaVidaUnaLiga ⚾️🇻🇪 (@LVBP_Oficial) December 19, 2025
Vargas’ career path has not been linear, but it has positioned him to cement his legacy in Venezuela further while continuing to compete at the highest level. Nearing the latter stages of his career, he continues to prove why he still belongs.
Whether in his home country or in the desert, Vargas remains competitive and continues to perform at an elite level.
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
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