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 .
THE HOMETOWN KID 😇 Wade Meckler leaves the yard on the first pitch he sees as a Halo! pic. twitter.
com/2LO0jIy8TQ — Los Angeles Angels (@Angels) May 23, 2026 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.