News Summary
Two former Orange Coast College baseball players, Eric Wagaman and David Morgan, have made it to Major League Baseball, marking a significant milestone for the college’s program. Wagaman debuted with the Los Angeles Angels and later signed with the Miami Marlins, while Morgan joined the San Diego Padres. Their journey highlights the impact of strong coaching and development, particularly the legacy of their late coach, John Altobelli. Their achievements continue to inspire current and future players at OCC.
Mission Viejo, California – Two former players from Orange Coast College (OCC) have risen to the ranks of Major League Baseball, marking a significant achievement in the history of the college’s baseball program. Eric Wagaman and David Morgan are the 21st and 22nd players from OCC to reach the major leagues, showcasing the college’s ability to develop talented players who can compete at the highest level of the sport.
Wagaman made his MLB debut with the Los Angeles Angels in 2024, and his performance prompted a signing with the Miami Marlins in December of that same year. As of August 14, 2025, Wagaman stands at 6 feet 4 inches tall and weighs 210 pounds. He has recorded a batting average of .230, contributing six home runs, 38 runs batted in, and scoring 38 runs throughout the ongoing season. His career took a significant turn when he faced Morgan, who debuted as a pitcher for the San Diego Padres in 2025, during his first major league game.
David Morgan’s journey to the Majors has been remarkable. He was a vital member of OCC’s 2019 state championship team and contributed to the team that won the Orange Empire Conference title in 2021. Although Morgan faced difficulties while pitching in his final year at OCC, he transferred to Hope International University, where he shone as a two-way player and earned All-Golden State Athletic Conference honors in 2022. His talent caught the attention of scouts, leading to his signing as an undrafted free agent with the Padres in July 2022.
Throughout his minor league career, Morgan excelled on the mound, striking out 19 batters and walking only one in 8 2/3 innings pitched, achieving a 3.12 ERA while playing for Double-A San Antonio. After a short stint, he was called up to the Major Leagues on May 25, 2025, and has since made 27 appearances with a commendable 1.71 ERA across 31 2/3 innings.
The legacy of their coach, John Altobelli, who tragically passed away in a helicopter crash on January 26, 2020, remains a significant part of their story. Altobelli’s impact on both players is profound, as he played a crucial role in their development during their time at OCC. Many coaches and family members have highlighted how his teachings and values influenced their careers.
OCC Assistant Coach Josh Davis expressed immense pride in the achievements of Wagaman and Morgan. He conveyed a heartfelt sentiment about wishing Altobelli could have witnessed his former players’ success. Tony Altobelli, John’s brother and the sports director at OCC, stated the excitement and happiness in witnessing former players fulfilling their dreams, all while honoring their late brother’s legacy and commitment to development.
Both Eric Wagaman and David Morgan continue to inspire current and future baseball players at OCC. Their successes in Major League Baseball serve as a testament to the potential that lies within the college’s baseball program and its alumni. As their careers evolve, the connection to John Altobelli serves as a source of motivation for them and the community surrounding OCC, highlighting the impact of mentorship, hard work, and determination in the path to achieving greatness in sports.
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Additional Resources
- Orange County Register: Dunn – Former Orange Coast College Baseball Standouts
- Los Angeles Times: Newport Harbor Baseball
- New York Times: Padres’ David Morgan
- CNN: John Altobelli
- SCV News: Canyons Post Win Over OCC
- Wikipedia: Orange Coast College
- Google Search: John Altobelli Baseball
- Google Scholar: Orange Coast College Baseball
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Baseball
- Google News: Orange Coast College Baseball
Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA WRITER
COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER The COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the OC Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Fish Fry. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, plus leading businesses in retail, fashion, and technology that power the local economy such as Vans, Experian, and South Coast Plaza. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
