New York Times best-selling author Jeff Pearlman has found a renewed passion for baseball, crediting the struggling Los Angeles Angels for rekindling his enthusiasm for the sport. Pearlman shared in a TikTok video that he has attended several games recently, finding particular enjoyment in the affordability and atmosphere of Angel Stadium.
Pearlman noted that while the Angels are enduring a difficult season with a losing record, he has been able to attend games alone and finds it a fulfilling experience. He described buying tickets in higher sections and utilizing offsite parking to keep costs down, a stark contrast to the more expensive options associated with other local teams like the Dodgers. "I love the feel of the ballpark, I love the look of the ballpark, I love the green, I love the national anthem, the seventh-inning stretch, I love that the Angels always do these really cheesy giveaways," Pearlman stated.
He characterized his recent visits as an affordable and enjoyable way to experience baseball in its "purest form." Despite the team's on-field performance, Pearlman expressed satisfaction with the value, calling it the "cheapest, best bang for your buck ever." He also mentioned engaging with fans, taking photos, and leaving copies of his books around the stadium.
Pearlman, known for his sports biographies, including works on the Los Angeles Lakers, has been a vocal admirer of the fan experience at Angels games. He also pointed out specific stadium amenities he enjoys, such as a cold brew coffee from the Rise Espresso Bar.
The Angels' performance in the 2026 season has been a source of frustration for many fans, with the team potentially facing a 100-loss season for the first time. This has led to organized protests against owner Arte Moreno, with chants of "Sell the team" echoing from the stands. Pearlman acknowledged the fan sentiment, describing the "Tarps Off" movement as "entertaining."