The Los Angeles Angels are navigating choppy waters, with their postseason drought continuing to frustrate fans and players alike. Recent comments from team owner Arte Moreno have only stirred the pot, suggesting that winning might not be as high on the priority list for fans as one might think.
Moreno's remarks, made during the start of spring training, have caught the attention of the MLB Players Association. Bruce Meyer, the director of the association, noted, “Players took notice of it, and so did we. Players are fierce competitors, dedicated to winning every game, and they expect the same commitment from team owners.”
Moreno's perspective, as reported, emphasized affordability, safety, and a good ballpark experience over the team's success on the field. “Believe it or not, winning is not in their top five,” he stated, according to the Orange County Register.
The Angels finished the 2025 season with a 72-90 record, anchoring them at the bottom of the American League West. In response to financial pressures, the team has trimmed its payroll to about $155 million for the 2026 season, down from over $200 million the previous year. Moreno cited an ineffective TV deal as a contributing factor, expressing hope that the payroll might return to previous levels once those issues are resolved.
Meyer expressed his disbelief at Moreno's comments, questioning the notion that winning isn't a priority. “If you can’t have a successful operation in Los Angeles, it’s hard to see what the problem is. The Angels have the resources to compete, so it’s remarkable to hear that winning isn’t a top priority.”
The Angels' playoff absence stretches back to 2014, leaving fans and players eager for a turnaround. As the team looks to the future, the focus will be on aligning ownership's priorities with the competitive spirit of the players and the expectations of their dedicated fanbase.