The Los Angeles Angels are officially changing hands, with Arte Moreno agreeing to sell the franchise for a staggering $4 billion to Stan Kroenke, and Angels superstar Mike Trout, 35, isn’t holding back his feelings. He’s reacting to the news “with enthusiasm,” calling the change “needed” and even noting a “good vibe around the clubhouse.” This isn’t just a sale, it’s a seismic shift for a franchise that has consistently fallen short despite having one of baseball’s all-time greats.
Trout’s Long Nightmare and Kroenke’s Shiny Reputation
Think about it: Trout’s been an Angels lifer since they drafted him 25th overall in 2009. We’re talking three MVP awards, 12 All-Star selections, and a guaranteed first-ballot Hall of Famer. Yet, in his 16-year MLB career, the Angels have made the playoffs only *once*, way back in 2014, and they got swept by the Royals in the ALDS. This 2026 season? They clinched a losing record before September even hit. That’s brutal, especially for a player of Trout’s caliber. Time and again, he’s shot down calls to waive his no-trade clause. He’s stuck it out. Now, with Kroenke taking over, Trout’s excitement is palpable, and it’s all about that “track record.”
A Winning Track Record That Stings and Inspires
Trout explicitly pointed to Kroenke’s history, saying, “What a track record. Wherever he buys, he wins.” And seriously, Kroenke’s resume is legit. His sports holdings company owns the Los Angeles Rams (NFL), Denver Nuggets (NBA), Colorado Avalanche (NHL), and Arsenal (English Premier League). Every single one of those teams has won their respective league titles within the last decade. Compare that to the Angels, who haven’t won a single playoff game during Trout’s entire MLB career. The contrast couldn’t be starker, and Trout’s blunt assessment that this change “was needed” speaks volumes about the frustration that has built up under Moreno. This isn’t just talk, it’s a player who has given his all finally seeing a glimmer of hope.
The Future Is Unwritten, But Trout’s Outlook Is Bright
Despite the huge shift, Trout’s loyalty remains rock solid. “No, it doesn’t change,” he said of his desire to stay with the Angels. “I got four years left on my deal. I’m excited. Look, the track record, it’s there.” He means Kroenke’s track record. While success won’t materialize overnight, the 2026 White Sox showed everyone how fast an MLB team can pivot and find success. And let’s not forget Trout himself is having a “strong rebound season” in 2026, with top-line numbers and underlying metrics looking great for the future. The sale likely won’t be final until early 2027, but with Trout “super excited” for this change, the entire league is watching what happens next. This is a story about hope, finally, for one of the game’s true legends.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by CBS Sports.
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