Full Breakdown
Stan Kroenke to Acquire Los Angeles Angels, Ending Arte Moreno’s 23-Year Ownership
9/2/2026, 12:00:37 AM
Acquisition Announcement
On September 1, Kroenke Sports & Entertainment (KSE) entered into a definitive agreement to purchase a controlling interest in the Los Angeles Angels from Arte Moreno and his family. The transaction requires MLB approval and is expected to close in the first quarter of 2027, adding baseball to KSE’s portfolio that already includes the Rams, Nuggets, Avalanche, Rapids and Arsenal.
Background & Context
Arte Moreno bought the franchise from Disney in 2003, shortly after the 2002 World Series win. His tenure featured five AL West titles (2004-2009) and two ALCS appearances. Since 2016 the club has missed the playoffs for 12 straight seasons, posting losing records each year, including a 53-85 finish in 2026. Fan frustration has been evident in “sell the team” chants at Angel Stadium.
Timeline
- 2003 – Moreno purchases the Angels.
- 2004-2009 – Five AL West titles and two ALCS trips.
- 2014 – Last playoff appearance (ALDS).
- 2016-2026 – Consecutive losing seasons; 2026 record 53-85.
- August 2022 – Moreno explores a sale, then reverses nine months later.
- September 1 – KSE announces definitive agreement.
- Q1 2027 (expected) – Closing pending MLB approval.
Data & Statistics
- Reported valuation: $4 billion, exceeding the previous MLB record of $3.9 billion for the Padres.
- Forbes valued the Angels at $2.8 billion in March 2026.
- Franchise achievements: nine AL West titles, one World Series (2002), three All-Star Games, seven MVPs, two Cy Youngs, three ROYs, 39 Gold Gloves and 168 All-Star selections.
Official Statements & Responses
Both parties framed the deal as a transition aimed at revitalizing the club’s competitive prospects.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
The purchase price was not disclosed in the announcement; a source cited by ESPN reported a $4 billion valuation, while other outlets noted the lack of a disclosed figure. No independent confirmation of the exact amount has been provided.
What’s Next
The sale will close in early 2027, subject to standard conditions and MLB approval. Pending approval, KSE will assume operational control, inherit interim GM John Mozeliak and a roster anchored by outfielder Mike Trout and pitcher Yusei Kikuchi. The ownership change may affect future stadium-site discussions, given KSE’s history of integrating venues into mixed-use developments.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The Angels are a storied franchise anchored in a great market,” — Stan Kroenke, owner and chairman
- “The Moreno Family has been honored to steward the Angels for 23 years and we believe with KSE's experience and success they are the best next owner for the franchise,” — Arte Moreno
