The Los Angeles Angels History dates back to 1961 when the team entered Major League Baseball as an expansion franchise. Over the decades, the club has thrilled fans with iconic players, postseason runs, and exciting performances. The Los Angeles Angels Baseball tradition reflects determination, growth, and unforgettable memories for supporters across California and beyond.
Established
1961
City
Los Angeles - Anaheim - Los Angeles (Anaheim)
League History
2000 – Present / Major League Baseball
1961 – 1999 / American League
Team History
2005 – Present / Los Angeles Angels
1997 – 2004 / Anaheim Angels
1965 – 1996 / California Angels
1961 – 1964 / Los Angeles Angels
Nickname
Angels – Los Angeles Angels are one of the most iconic teams in Major League Baseball (MLB). The team’s nickname has a long and exciting history that dates back to 1961, when the franchise was first established.
The original name for the Los Angeles Angels was “Los Angeles Stars,” which came from a suggestion by former Dodgers owner Walter O'Malley. However, after much deliberation and debate among fans, media members, and baseball executives alike, it was decided that this name didn't quite fit with what they were trying to accomplish as an organization. It wasn't until 1962, when Gene Autry purchased the team that they finally settled on their current moniker: "Angels."
Los Angeles Angels Origin
The origin of this unique nickname can be traced back to Autry's love for Western music, specifically his hit song "Back in the Saddle Again." This song included lyrics about angels watching over cowboys while traveling – something many Angelenos could relate to being so far away from home during road trips or games against other teams across America. As such, it made perfect sense for them to adopt this phrase as part of their identity moving forward into MLB play!
Nowadays, you'll find plenty of references around Angel Stadium celebrating these origins - including statues dedicated to honoring Mr. Autry and his beloved track! Additionally, there are also several murals featuring angel wings throughout various parts inside/outside stadium grounds paying homage not only to those who helped create but also sustain success within the LA Angels organization over the years since inception all way up today - making sure everyone knows where true loyalty lies & how proud we are our roots no matter what happens come game time each season!
Championship
World Series 0
2002
Stadium
2004 – Present / Angel Stadium of Anaheim
1998 – 2003 / Edison International Field
1965 – 1997 / Anaheim Stadium
*Los Angeles*
1962 – 1964 / Chavez Ravine
1961 / Wrigley Field
Owner
2003 – Present / Arturo Moreno
1996 – 2003 / The Walt Disney Company
1961 – 1996 / Gene Autry
- 1961
- 2002
- 2005
- 2014
- 2021
Los Angeles Angels Team Formation
The Angels and their fellow expansionists, the new Washington Senators now the Texas Rangers chose players from other American League teams in an expansion draft. In 1961, the first year of the team’s existence, the Angels finished 70–91 for a .435 winning percentage, still the highest winning percentage ever for a first-year major league expansion team.
Angels’ Game 6 Miracle Sparks 2002 Title
The 2002 World Series marked the first and only championship for the Los Angeles Angels franchise (then the Anaheim Angels). In a thrilling seven-game series against the San Francisco Giants, the Angels completed an unforgettable run as a Wild Card team. Facing a 5-0 deficit in the bottom of the 7th of a pivotal Game 6, the Angels staged a ...
The Team Renamed: Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
On January 3, 2005 Angels Baseball, L.P. announced that it would change the name of the club from Anaheim Angels to Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. The new name sparked outrage among Anaheim and Los Angeles city leaders, who argued that a team that does not play its home games within the city or county of Los Angeles should not ...-
Angels Historic 98-Win Season
The 2014 Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim had a historically successful regular season, finishing with a franchise-best record of 98-64, the best in all of Major League Baseball. The team, managed by Mike Scioscia, was led by a powerful offense that ranked first in the league in runs scored, anchored by eventual AL MVP Mike Trout. They clinched the American ... 
Ohtani: First Dual-Role All-Star and Unanimous AL MVP
Shohei Ohtani’s 2021 season was an unprecedented display of two-way brilliance that captivated the baseball world. He became the first player in MLB history to be selected as an All-Star as both a pitcher and a position player. On the mound, he posted a 9-2 record with a 3.18 ERA and 156 strikeouts in 130 1/3 innings. At the plate, ...
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Los Angeles Angels History
The Los Angeles Angels History began in 1961 when the franchise joined Major League Baseball as an expansion team. Originally named the Los Angeles Angels and later the Anaheim Angels, the club quickly established itself as an important part of Los Angeles Angels Baseball on the West Coast. Over the decades, the team became known for its passionate fan base and exciting style of play.
During the early years of the Los Angeles Angels History, the team played its home games at Dodger Stadium before moving to Anaheim Stadium in 1966. This relocation helped build a stronger identity in Southern California. Despite competing against older, more established franchises like the Yankees or the Red Sox, the Anaheim Angels, now known again as the Los Angeles Angels, created memorable moments that shaped the legacy of Los Angeles Angels Baseball.
One unforgettable event came during the 2002 postseason. Known as “the Rally Monkey Game,” it took place on June 6, 2002, when Tim Salmon hit a dramatic two-run home run against the San Francisco Giants. Darin Erstad followed with a key hit, securing an 8–7 win. This victory sparked momentum that ultimately led to the franchise’s first Los Angeles Angels History World Series title later that year.
Angels Achievements
Throughout Los Angeles Angels Baseball history, the club has been home to legendary players. Hall of Famers such as Nolan Ryan, who threw his seventh no-hitter while wearing an Angels uniform, Rod Carew, and Reggie Jackson made significant contributions. More recently, stars like Mike Trout and Shohei Ohtani have carried the tradition forward, thrilling fans with MVP-level performances and record-breaking feats at Angel Stadium in Anaheim.
The Los Angeles Angels History also includes remarkable achievements. The team has won nine division titles, one Wild Card berth, and four American League pennants, highlighted by the 2002 World Series Championship. This success cemented their reputation as one of the most competitive teams in Los Angeles Angels Baseball despite their relatively young age compared to century-old franchises.
In recent years, the Angels have continued to invest in player development and international scouting. Their commitment to excellence ensures that the Los Angeles Angels History will keep expanding with new milestones and achievements. Fans around the world still flock to Anaheim to experience the excitement of Los Angeles Angels Baseball, knowing that the future holds even more memorable moments for this storied franchise.
Sports Fan Products
Mount Rushmore Los Angeles Angels: The Greatest Players in Franchise History!
In this video, we delve into the history of the Los Angeles Angels and highlight the four players who have defined the franchise through their remarkable achievements, leadership, and lasting impact. From unforgettable moments to career-defining performances, discover who made it to the Mount Rushmore of the Los Angeles Angels and why they stand among the greatest in baseball history.
Mike Trout Player History: Your Journey Ends Here!
In this video, We Explore the journey of baseball legend Mike Trout with our exclusive Player History collection! Discover the story behind the superstar, from his rookie days to his record-breaking achievements.
Retired Number
11 / Jim Fregosi
26 / Gene Autry
29 / Rod Carew
30 / Nolan Ryan
42 / Jackie Robinson
50 / Jimmy Reese
*Blue is this team’s history