The sale of the Los Angeles Angels to Stan Kroenke's Kroenke Sports & Entertainment (KSE) has been met with widespread celebration from fans who for years called for owner Arte Moreno to sell the team. However, the initial jubilation is quickly giving way to anxiety and speculation about what the change in ownership will mean for the franchise's future.
Concerns have surfaced on social media platforms regarding Kroenke's intentions, particularly whether he might relocate the team. This anxiety is amplified by Kroenke's history of moving sports franchises, most notably the NFL's Rams from St. Louis to Los Angeles, where he developed SoFi Stadium and the Hollywood Park complex in Inglewood. Fans have voiced fears about the team being moved out of Southern California or specifically out of Anaheim.
"Any fears Kroenke moves the team out of So Cal?" one fan questioned on Reddit, echoing the sentiment of "Be careful what you wish for." Another fan speculated, "He's planning to move that team. Bet."
KSE has not indicated any intention to relocate the Angels. The ownership group's statement referred to Orange County as a market with a "distinct civic identity" and described the acquisition as an extension of its Southern California presence.
Baseball's regional nature is a significant factor, with Los Angeles being firmly Dodgers territory. The Angels' identity and long-term value are closely linked to Orange County. The team's current lease at the city-owned Angel Stadium extends through 2032, with options for the team until 2038. However, a state audit has highlighted potential multi-million dollar repair needs for the aging stadium, raising questions about its future.
While relocation fears persist, some fans are openly advocating for changes to the team's name, with calls to revert to either the "Anaheim Angels" or "California Angels" gaining traction online. The sentiment is a desire to maintain the team's distinct identity, separate from Los Angeles.
Moreno's tenure was marked by years of fan protests urging him to sell. With the sale to Kroenke now agreed upon, fans are grappling with the reality of a new owner and the potential for significant changes to their team's structure, location, and identity.