Angels Add New Chapter to Hagins’ Baseball Career

Stephan Hagins, who was rated one of the top prospects in the nation by the Major League Scouting Bureau four years ago as a senior at University High, was drafted Wednesday by the Angels in baseball’s amateur draft.

Hagins, who was diagnosed with a heart-valve defect, batted .507 as a senior. From being a probable first-round pick, Hagins wasn’t selected until the 23rd round by the Cleveland Indians. He opted to enroll at Arizona State but was not allowed to play. Hagins then transferred to and played for San Diego State.

Two more Cal State Fullerton players also were selected in the draft. Pitcher John Alkire was taken in the 13th round by the Detroit Tigers and outfielder Scott Seal in the 22nd round by the San Diego Padres.

Rancho Santiago shortstop Josh Redding was selected in the third round by the Montreal Expos, and Villa Park second baseman Matt Boone was a third-round pick of the Detroit Tigers.

Four Cypress College players have been drafted: shortstop Bret Halbert was picked by the Royals in the 45th round, catcher Greg Kuzmic went to the Mets in an undisclosed round, pitcher Richard Sundsprom was picked by the Mariners and outfielder/pitcher Greg Jacobs went to the Cubs.

Three Saddleback players were picked: first baseman Kirk Bolling in the 28th round by the Mariners, pitcher Pat Versluis in the 41st round by the Blue Jays and pitcher Nick Punto by the Twins.