In First MLB Game Since 2023, Anaheim Native Shines in Angels Debut

In his first MLB game since 2023, outfielder Wade Meckler shined in his debut with the Los Angeles Angels on Friday in the series opener against the Texas Rangers.

On the first pitch he saw, Meckler launched a three-run homer 403 feet into the right field pavilion to mark his first career home run. Meckler became the first player in Angels history to hit a home run in their debut since Mike Napoli did it in 2006, according to The Sporting Tribune.

Meckler’s home run was the second of the night for the Angels after shortstop Zach Neto’s leadoff home run. Neto and second baseman Oswald Peraza added two more homers to the Angels’ tally later in the game to help the Halos win 9-6.

“Man, Wade Meckler set the tone for the game today,” starting pitcher Grayson Rodriguez said, per MLB. “I mean, obviously [Neto] leading us off with a homer was great, and anytime you can get a leadoff homer is awesome. But Wade hitting that ball off deGrom, I mean, that’s what got me going. Like, put it in four-wheel drive and let’s go.”

Meckler Is An Orange County Native

Hitting a home run in a club debut is always special but it is even more when it is for your hometown team.

Meckler is an Anaheim, California native who graduated from Esperanza High School and grew up a fan of the Angels. Meckler said his favorite players growing up were Chone Figgins, Erick Aybar, Torii Hunter and current teammate Mike Trout.

Before joining the Angels, Meckler played 20 games with the San Francisco Giants in 2023. During the 2024 and 2025 seasons, Meckler spent time in various minor league levels and battling injuries that prevented him from making an MLB appearance for two consecutive seasons.

The Giants ultimately designated Meckler for assignment in December. Then, the Angels claimed him off waivers in January before designating him for assignment later that month.

Los Angeles invited Meckler as a non-roster player to spring training. He started the season with Triple-A Salt Lake but after five games, he was demoted to Double-A Rocket City. He earned a promotion back to Triple-A in April.

The Angels selected Meckler’s contract on Friday, allowing him to make his long-awaited return to MLB.

“It’s been a little bit. Spent a lot of the last couple of years injured, grinding through injuries. Just feels good to be healthy and be able to compete the way I feel like I’m capable of competing,” Meckler said, per The Sporting Tribune. “Obviously, it’s really cool to be in the Big Leagues for your childhood team as well.”

Photo Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

The post In First MLB Game Since 2023, Anaheim Native Shines in Angels Debut  appeared first on LA Sports Report.