At Miguel Vargas’s first official event representing the Dodgers in 2023, the infielder revealed a new uniform number. After making his MLB debut last season wearing the number 71 — the same as he wore in spring training — he’s making the switch to number 17.
Number 17 was last worn by utility man and lights-out reliever Hanser Alberto in 2022. Alberto signed a minor league deal with the Minnesota Twins after his option was declined by the Dodgers.
For Vargas, it’s a sort of show of confidence by the organization. Along with the new number, Vargas will also be at a new position in 2023.