The Angels and Their Name
The Los Angeles Angels have a name that holds significant implications, especially for residents in Southern California. Fans often criticized Arte Moreno’s choice to rename the team after a city 25 miles from Anaheim, its home since 1966. Despite this, the franchise continues to play at the city-owned Angel Stadium.
Change in Ownership
On September 1, Moreno revealed plans to sell the team to Kroenke Sports & Entertainment. This transition raises various questions about the franchise’s future. Assuming the team stays in Anaheim, local leaders anticipate a push to reinstate ‘Anaheim’ in its name.
“I feel like it’s my birthday,” stated Ashleigh Aitken, the mayor of Anaheim. “As a dedicated Angels fan, I’m hopeful for a bright future for Anaheim Angels baseball.”
City Council member Natalie Rubalcava echoed similar sentiments, expressing excitement over the potential change.
Record Sale
The Angels are set to sell for a record-breaking $4 billion, surpassing the previous $3.9 billion sale of the San Diego Padres to José E. Feliciano and Kwanza Jones. This substantial gain contrasts with Moreno’s initial $183.5 million investment, made in May 2023.
Municipal Impact
Anaheim has long felt the financial ramifications of the name change. A legal dispute emerged years ago, with estimates suggesting a potential revenue loss of $26.5 million annually due to the shift to ‘Los Angeles Angels,’ amounting to over $500 million in losses over two decades.
The association with Anaheim dates back to Disney’s ownership, which started in 1997 after buying the team from Gene Autry. Autry had previously shifted the name from ‘Los Angeles’ to ‘California’ to extend its appeal.
Pressure for Name Revision
The state isn’t influencing a name change, but Anaheim is. Aitken had previously sent an open letter to the Angels, aiming to mend ties and aspire for a name revision. Should the city succeed, Kroenke might prioritize reestablishing ‘Anaheim’ in the team’s name.
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