A California lawmaker is pushing a bill that could force the Los Angeles Angels to revert to their former name, the Anaheim Angels.
Assemblymember Avelino Valencia introduced the bill, AB 2512, which requires the team to use “Anaheim Angels” in official documents and marketing materials if the City of Anaheim grants special legal treatment for the sale, lease, or redevelopment of Angel Stadium. The bill passed the Assembly unanimously and now moves to the state Senate.
Valencia, who represents Anaheim, emphasized the importance of the team’s name reflecting its actual location. “Anaheim is a world-class city,” Valencia said, adding that the community deserves recognition for its long-standing support of the team. The bill revives a long-standing issue, as the team changed its name to the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim in 2005 to tap into the larger Los Angeles media market, despite local opposition.
The name change has been a point of contention, with Anaheim Mayor Ashleigh Aitken instructing the city attorney to explore potential lease violations due to the name change. The Angels, who have not made the playoffs since 2014, have faced various challenges, including a failed stadium deal and a federal corruption investigation involving former Mayor Harry Sidhu.
The bill’s passage could restore the team’s original name, reflecting Anaheim’s pride and history with the franchise. The legislation is seen as a way to acknowledge Anaheim’s contributions and strengthen community ties. The Angels organization has not commented on the proposed legislation.
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