Arte Moreno’s struggles as owner of the Los Angeles Angels have prompted calls for him to sell the franchise, according to the Los Angeles Times.
What happened
Moreno, who purchased the Angels shortly after their 2002 World Series victory, has faced severe backlash as the team experiences a prolonged lack of success. The franchise has missed the playoffs for eleven consecutive years, suffering through ten consecutive seasons with sub-.500 records. Fans are expressing their frustrations through protests, chanting for him to sell the team during games.[1]
“Sell the team,” fans reportedly chanted during a recent protest at Angel Stadium.
Moreno’s tenure has seen a rapid decline in the team’s once vibrant culture. Despite high-profile acquisitions like Mike Trout and Shohei Ohtani, the organization has failed to capitalize on their talents. Moreno’s management decisions, including neglecting player acquisition expertise, have been scrutinized, with many citing these as reasons for the team’s downfall.
Why it matters
Calls for Moreno to divest his ownership reflect larger concerns about the trajectory of the Angels franchise. With an estimated value of $2.75 billion, selling now might provide a financial boon while alleviating ongoing local discontent. The team’s long-term viability depends on effective ownership that invests in winning strategies.[2]
Background
Following the 2007 retirement of Bill Stoneman, the Angels’ general manager during their successful years, Moreno became overly involved in player decisions. His strategies led to poor player investments, including high-profile signings that failed to perform, eroding fan trust over time.
Recent controversies have also negatively impacted the team’s reputation. The family of late pitcher Tyler Skaggs settled a wrongful death lawsuit against the organization, alleging negligence, further straining relations with fans.
What’s next
The Angels face critical decisions in the coming months as they navigate free agency and consider leadership changes. If Moreno does not initiate a sale, discussions around his future with the team are likely to continue, particularly as fan dissatisfaction rises.[3]
