Joel
Vargas

Vargas put together one of the more eye-opening performances of the event, headlined by an event-best 6.63 60-yard dash that immediately translates to his defensive profile in the outfield. He moves efficiently with ease, projecting as a long-term CF/RF option, and showed a long, fluid arm action during the defensive workout with accurate, on-line throws clocked at 83 mph. The bat was where Vargas really separated himself. He posted a 98.1 mph max exit velocity in BP, working with a gap-to-gap, line-drive approach and consistently squaring up the baseball. That approach carried into live gameplay, where he smoked a ball through the 5-6 hole for a base hit and also barreled a ball to second base, rounding out a strong two-AB showing. Seeing Vargas in live play for the second time, the offensive consistency continues to stand out, especially after an opposite-field home run back in May of the CIF-SD Section playoffs in the first viewing. With his present foot speed, a developing feel for the barrel, and a bat that has shown consistent results in live action, Vargas is proving why he is such a highly touted name out of San Diego.

Vargas added another big swing to his growing highlight reel, going opposite field for a two-run home run in the sixth inning that gave Eastlake a lead at the time. The ball left the bat with authority, clearing the right-field wall and showcasing the natural all-fields power that he has in his game. Vargas has drawn plenty of attention for the platform he’s built on social media, but beyond the views and the hype, he can flat out play. Currently ranked as the No. 1 outfielder in California and the No. 6 overall player in the state for the 2028 class, he continues to prove that the talent matches the buzz. Entering today, he was hitting .321 on the year with 9 doubles, showing consistent production and impact in the heart of Eastlake’s lineup. At the plate, Vargas hits from a balanced stance with a fluid, aggressive swing. He uses his lower half well, creating separation and leverage while maintaining barrel control. His power is real and plays to all fields, as shown by the opposite-field homer. He also collected a sharp GB single up the middle in the game as well. He doesn’t overswing and shows a calm, collected approach regardless of game situation. Physically, Vargas has an athletic, well-proportioned frame with present strength and plenty of projection left. He runs well, moves confidently in the outfield, and has the arm to hold down any spot. He shows clean footwork and takes quality routes to the ball. While his online presence has put a spotlight on his game, Vargas continues to let the on-field results speak just as loudly. He plays with composure, confidence, and the kind of energy that raises the level of those around him. There’s still plenty of development ahead, but his combination of tools, production, and mentality make him one of the premier names in California’s 2028 class — and a key piece of Eastlake’s present and future.