Angels fans have expressed mixed feelings following Arte Moreno's agreement to sell the team to Stan Kroenke's Kroenke Sports & Entertainment. While many fans celebrated the change after years of protests, some are now questioning the potential implications of the sale. Concerns have been raised on social media about the possibility of the team relocating, with one fan asking, "Any fears Kroenke moves the team out of So Cal?" Others expressed specific worries about the team moving to Los Angeles, with comments like, "If he moved the team to LA he’d immediately be worse than Arte."
Kroenke, who owns the Rams and developed SoFi Stadium, has a history of relocating teams, which has led to speculation among fans. However, there has been no indication from Kroenke that he intends to relocate the Angels. A statement from Kroenke Sports & Entertainment referred to Orange County as a market with a "distinct civic identity" and described the acquisition as an extension of its Southern California footprint.
The regional nature of baseball fandom is significant, as Los Angeles is primarily associated with the Dodgers. The Angels' identity and value are closely linked to Orange County. Fans are also concerned about Angel Stadium, which is city-owned and has a lease running through 2032, with options extending to 2038. A state audit has indicated that the aging stadium may require substantial repairs.
Some fans are advocating for changes to the team’s branding, with calls to restore the names Anaheim Angels or California Angels. As fans transition from celebrating Moreno's departure to contemplating the future under new ownership, questions about the direction of the Angels remain prevalent.