Kroenke Sports and Entertainment has agreed to acquire the Los Angeles Angels from Arte Moreno, taking control of the struggling baseball team as part of its extensive portfolio of sports franchises in the United States. The company, led by Stan Kroenke, made the unexpected announcement on Tuesday, with the deal expected to be completed in early 2027 pending approval from Major League Baseball.
Expanding its reach beyond the NFL’s Los Angeles Rams, Premier League’s Arsenal, NBA’s Denver Nuggets, NHL’s Colorado Avalanche, MLS’s Colorado Rapids, and SoFi Stadium, Kroenke’s conglomerate now ventures into baseball with the Angels. The team’s tumultuous period under Moreno’s ownership, spanning over 23 years, is set to conclude with this transfer of ownership.
Expressing optimism about the future, Kroenke stated, “The Angels have a rich history in a vibrant market, and we are excited about the prospects with the Angels organization.” Moreno, who purchased the Angels from Walt Disney Company in 2003, saw initial success with the team but witnessed a decline in recent years, marked by prolonged playoff droughts and on-field struggles.
With the Angels currently holding the worst record in the American League at 53-85 and facing their 11th consecutive losing season, the move signifies a significant shift in ownership dynamics. In contrast, Kroenke’s other teams have excelled in their respective leagues, winning championships and maintaining strong competitive positions under his stewardship.
Moreno’s tenure faced criticism for his management style, marked by notable personnel decisions that failed to yield desired results. Additionally, the Angels under Moreno’s leadership reportedly faced challenges in infrastructure, resources, and off-field controversies, contributing to a waning fan base and calls for change.
Following the appointment of John Mozeliak to oversee baseball operations after the dismissal of general manager Perry Minasian, the Angels are undergoing a restructuring phase to revitalize the franchise. Moreno expressed gratitude for his family’s 23-year ownership while endorsing Kroenke Sports and Entertainment as the ideal future owner for the Angels, signaling a new chapter for the organization.
As Kroenke Sports and Entertainment prepares to take the reins, they become only the fourth permanent owner in the history of the Angels, originally founded in 1961 by Gene Autry. The transition marks a significant development for the Angels, positioning them for a potential resurgence under new ownership.