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About Us
At oc dukes baseball, our mission is to empower players through expert coaching and mentorship. With a foundation built on professional experience, we strive to develop not just skilled athletes, but also responsible team players.
Coaches
Coach Seth Etherton:
A Journey of Excellence in Baseball
Seth Etherton is a former professional baseball player and current coach, known for his impactful career both on and off the field. Throughout his journey in baseball, Etherton has demonstrated a commitment to developing talent, leadership, and fostering a winning mentality. His coaching philosophy is grounded in his experiences as a player, as well as his deep understanding of the game’s intricacies.
Early Life and College Baseball Career
Growing up in Dana Point, Ca. Seth developed a passion for baseball at a young age, growing up in a region that is known for its rich baseball culture. Etherton’s skills on the mound quickly became apparent as he progressed through youth and at Dana Hills High School . His success at the high school level led him to continue his baseball career at University of Southern California (USC), where he played for the USC Trojans.
During his time at USC, Etherton earned a reputation as a standout pitcher earning All Pac-10 Selection three times, Two Time Pac-10 Pitcher of the Year, Three time All American, 1998 National Player of the Year and a 1998 National Champion. He was an integral part of the team’s pitching rotation, and his ability to command the game from the mound drew the attention of professional scouts.
Professional Playing Career
Etherton's impressive college career laid the foundation for his transition to professional baseball. In 1998, he was selected by the Anaheim Angels in the 1st round (18th overall) of the Major League Baseball Draft. His professional career saw him play in Major League Baseball (MLB) as a pitcher, as well as in various minor league teams.
Etherton made his MLB debut for the Anaheim Angels in 2000 and pitched for several teams, including the Cincinnati Reds, Kansas City Royals, and Oakland Athletics
Transition to Coaching
After retiring from professional baseball in 2013, Seth Etherton transitioned into coaching. His deep understanding of pitching, player development, and the nuances of the game quickly made him a respected figure in coaching circles. Etherton began his coaching career in the college ranks at the University of San Francisco, where he brought his expertise to young, aspiring players in 2014 and 2015.
In 2016, he joined the Cincinnati Reds organization as a pitching coach, where he would spend the next seven years working with a variety of players at different levels of the minor league system. Etherton’s deep understanding of pitching mechanics, mental toughness, and strategy made him an asset to the Reds’ player development program. Etherton played a crucial role in assisting his pitchers with the challenges of managing pressure, adjusting their approach against tougher hitters, and refining their skills. His ability to work with pitchers on both a technical and psychological level made him a trusted figure among players and staff.
Etherton’s coaching tenure culminated in his role as the pitching coach for the Louisville Bats, the Reds' AAA affiliate. This was a pivotal position where Etherton worked closely with some of the top prospects in the Reds system, preparing them for potential call-ups to the Major League roster. At this level, Etherton’s focus was on honing pitchers’ advanced skills, improving pitch selection, and helping them make adjustments that could contribute to their success at the Major League level. His expertise in working with pitchers on the cusp of the big leagues was crucial in helping them refine their mechanics and maintain their confidence under pressure.
One of his most significant coaching roles came at the University of Southern California (USC), where he became the pitching coach for the USC Trojans in the fall 0f 2022. In this role, Etherton used his vast experience to mentor and develop pitchers, helping them refine their skills, improve their deliveries, and thrive in competitive environments. His coaching philosophy emphasizes discipline, technique, and the mental aspect of the game, all of which he believes are crucial for long-term success.
Etherton’s coaching style is often described as a combination of high expectations, strong communication, and an understanding of the personal and technical aspects of each player's journey. He has proven himself to be a coach who builds lasting relationships with his players, helping them not only improve their skills but also navigate the challenges of a highly competitive sport.
Personal Life and Influence
Seth has not only excelled in his career but also built a fulfilling family life with his wife, Summer, and their four children. Beyond the baseball diamond, Seth and Summer’s journey is one of love, hard work, sacrifice, and a strong commitment to both their professional and personal life. Together, Seth and Summer have created a family environment grounded in support, teamwork, and shared values of faith.
Coach Chris Donnels
Professional Baseball Playing Career
Donnels was selected by the New York Mets in the 12th round of the 1986 MLB Draft. He began his professional career in the minor leagues, where he quickly established himself as a versatile player with a solid bat and good defensive skills. His ability to play multiple positions, including outfield and infield, made him a valuable asset to any team. After several seasons in the minors, Donnels made his MLB debut with the Mets on September 7, 1988.
Over the course of his playing career, Donnels played for several major league teams, including the New York Mets, San Diego Padres, New York Yankees, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Florida Marlins.
Professional Baseball Playing Career
After his playing career, Donnels transitioned into coaching, a move that allowed him to continue his involvement in the game while also passing on his knowledge to the next generation of players. His experience as a utility player gave him a unique perspective on the game, and he quickly became known as a coach who could work with players at all levels and help them develop their skills.
Donnels began his coaching career at the minor league level before eventually moving into coaching roles with various professional baseball organizations. In addition to his work with individual players, Donnels contributed to team development as a coach, helping to develop strategies that maximized the strengths of his teams and players. He emphasized fundamentals, work ethic, and understanding the game from multiple positions, which helped players grow both as athletes and as well-rounded baseball minds.
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