[2] An athletic teenager, Vargas spent his early years playing pick-up baseball games, which helped him develop ability and strength.

Meanwhile, at home, he was signed by the Leones del Escogido, one of the four original Dominican Republic winter baseball league teams that remain in competition.

Vargas gained recognition around the Caribbean and in New York City, establishing a Negro league record by hitting home runs in seven consecutive at bats.

Vargas, in the twilight of his career, returned to the Dominican Republic's winter league also in 1952, this time with the Estrellas Orientales team.

The stadium in San Pedro de Macorís, home of the Estrellas Orientales team, is named in his honor.