Angels fans escalate protests, demanding Arte Moreno sell the team in 2026
Angels fans have stepped up their protests against owner Arte Moreno during the 2026 season. Chants of 'Sell the team!' filled Angel Stadium on Monday night, with supporters even removing their shirts to make their message clearer. Frustration has been building for years over the team’s lack of success and declining attendance. Moreno first considered selling the franchise in 2022 but chose to stay, claiming he had 'unfinished business'. Since then, the team’s struggles have continued. Under his ownership, the Angels have posted 10 losing seasons and missed the playoffs 11 times. Their only postseason appearance since 2010 came in 2023, despite years of high payroll spending.
Attendance has dropped by 20 percent over the past two decades, reflecting growing fan dissatisfaction. This season, supporters have adopted the 'Tarps Off' protest—originally seen at Busch Stadium—to demand change. The front office now operates on short-term contracts, with long-term payroll commitments sharply reduced.
Many in baseball believe the franchise is now in a position for a potential ownership change. If Moreno were to reconsider selling, a transition could happen more smoothly than before. The protests show no signs of slowing down as fans push for new leadership. With the team’s on-field struggles and falling attendance, pressure on Moreno continues to grow. The franchise’s future may hinge on whether he decides to step aside or seek a buyer.