What Did the Anaheim Angels Used to Be Called? A Look at Their Name Changes Over the Years

The Anaheim Angels, now known as the Los Angeles Angels, originally started as the Los Angeles Angels when the team was founded in 1961.

The franchise was called the California Angels from 1965 to 1996 before becoming the Anaheim Angels and eventually reverting to its current name. This history reflects not only the team’s geographic shifts but also the evolution of the franchise within Major League Baseball.

As a member of the American League, the Angels have had a rich and sometimes tumultuous journey. The team’s identity and name changes often mirrored the sentiment of the fans and the organization’s goals.

Readers may find it interesting to explore how these name changes corresponded with the team’s performance and community engagement over the decades.

Fans of baseball and sports history will appreciate the deeper connections to the city of Los Angeles and the influence of local culture on the franchise. Each name change tells a story of growth, challenges, and the pursuit of success in a competitive league.

History and Evolution

The history of the team now known as the Los Angeles Angels includes various name changes and ownership transitions. These events have shaped the identity of the franchise over the decades.

Origins and Name Transformations

The franchise began in 1961 as the Los Angeles Angels, established by Gene Autry. This name was influenced by an earlier team that played in the Pacific Coast League.

In 1965, the team moved to Anaheim and became the California Angels to reflect its new home. By 1997, changing ownership saw the team rebranded as the Anaheim Angels, which was part of Disney’s influence.

Later, in 2005, the name shifted to the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, blending the old name with the new city identity. Today, the team retains the name Los Angeles Angels while competing in Major League Baseball.

Ownership and Stadium Changes

The team’s ownership has seen significant changes over time. Gene Autry owned the Angels until his death in 1998. Disney then acquired a stake, further transforming the team’s brand.

The stadium situation also evolved. The team initially played at Wrigley Field before moving to Anaheim Stadium in 1966.

In 1998, it was renamed Edison International Field of Anaheim, and by 2003, it became Angel Stadium of Anaheim. This venue remains the team’s home, hosting numerous fans and events, showcasing its rich history in California baseball.

Team Achievements and Notable Players

The Anaheim Angels have a rich history filled with significant achievements and legendary players. From capturing championships to producing baseball icons, the team has left an indelible mark on Major League Baseball.

Championships and Milestones

The Angels have experienced notable success since their inception. The pinnacle of their achievement came in 2002 when they won the World Series.

As the Anaheim Angels, they clinched the American League Pennant, defeating the Minnesota Twins in the playoffs. This victory led them to face the San Francisco Giants in a thrilling seven-game series, showcasing their resilience and skill.

In addition to their World Series title, the Angels have made ten postseason appearances. They have won the AL West Division multiple times, consistently proving their competitiveness within the league.

Notably, they have recorded significant achievements such as a no-hitter and produced players who have scored numerous accolades throughout their careers.

Hall of Famers and Legends

The Angels have been home to several future Hall of Famers and legendary players.

Nolan Ryan, renowned for his powerful pitching, is a cornerstone of the Angels’ history. His impressive strikeout records and no-hitters propelled the team to new heights.

Other notable players include Rod Carew, known for his hitting prowess, and Reggie Jackson, who brought star power to the franchise.

The recent era features superstars like Mike Trout, often regarded as one of the best players in baseball. Shohei Ohtani, a unique two-way player, has also captured the attention of fans with his exceptional skills on the mound and at the plate.

Vladimir Guerrero and Don Baylor further solidified the team’s legacy with their impactful performances over the years.